Bombers Win Big Over Shuckers! - by Justin MooreThe Beltway Bombers, playing under-manned without any of their point guards, and without their ACPBL all-star swing forwards (Rogers Barnes (6'2''-G-86, college: Morgan St.) and Jamaal Wise (6'5''-F-83, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Rhode Island)), blew out the Bay Area Shuckers by 35 points...131-96. Bombers had five players in double figures, led once again by the ACPBL reigning MVP Hugh Jones (6'3''-F-80) triple-double of 42 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists. David Bailey (6'8''-F-83, college: Prince George CC) added 17 points and 18 rebounds, and Cavell Johnson (6'8''-F-85, college: UMBC) had 24 points and 10 rebounds. Marcus Fisher (6'4''-G/F-83) returned to Bombers lineup pouring in 24 points.

While being short-handed of key players, Coach Chaz used assorted high pick & rolls, isolations and post up plays to maximize Baby Shaq's talents. ' With the obvious focus of the Shuckers defense on Shaq, it opened up our post up options that we exploited. When they began to shade to that, Shaq took the game over'. 'Hugh Jones is a pro, and the most unguardable and complete player in the country'. Coach added that 'he's too strong for guards and too fast for bigs. He's a lock-down defender, double figure rebounder, and one the best playmakers and passers on the Bombers team. He's averaging close to 40 points a game this season, along with double figure assists and rebounds every game'.

Bombers Head Coach Chaz Dudley was also pleased to have back in the lineup for the first time this season his two all-stars from last year; Steven Miles (6'2''-G-81, college: American) and Marcus Fisher. Fisher, along with Baby Shaq, were the leading scorers in the ACPBL last season, with both averaging 30 points a game each for the Bombers. 'Together, they were a lethal scoring combination and match-problem for opposing teams. Having Fish back and healthy adds another explosive scorer and finisher...he's a very tough cover'. Steven Miles led the ACPBL in 3 point shooting accuracy last season and returned from a torn achilles injury. 'Steve is a knock down shooter and scorer, and is one of our co-captains, along with Rog and Shaq. His leadership and decision making is going to make us that much more explosive.' While still getting themselves back into pro shape, Fish and Steve will be key additional weapons to an already loaded roster.

Having to adjust the game-plan due to his shortened lineup, Coach Chaz went away from the Bombers usual pressure, speed and attacking style, to a very physical inside approach. ' With our power bigs of 6-10 Lawrence Felder (6'9''-C-76, college: Salem Intern.), 6-9 Dave Bailey and 6-8 Cavell Johnson, Coach Mac, Coach Antoine and I felt we could capitalize on exploiting our post matchups, which eventually allowed dribble drive lanes for Shaq, Fish and Myron. We protected the basketball, controlled the glass and finished at the rim with bad intentions. Next week we will have our full roster, and I will alter our gameplan accordingly.'

The Bombers have beaten their South Division opponent Shuckers 4 out 5 times thus-far this season. Their only loss was in OT by 1 point on the well publicized controversial game ending incorrect goal-tend call, that could not be reversed. Bombers have six games remaining (NYC 524, Shuckers, Kingz, Pride, Lightning and Destroyers), with five of them on the Bombers home court (s). 'Our focus is to have all of our guys healthy and together for the stretch run, tighten our execution, and play like the beast pros that we're capable'. Next up for the Bombers is a home game against NYC 524 on Saturday evening, March 3rd at Riverdale Baptist School in Upper Marlboro MD.

Round 8 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket NewsThe biggest surprise of round 8 in ASEAN League was Malaysian guest KL Dragons' (#2) road victory over Filipino Petron Blaze (#3) 73-70 on Saturday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Petron Blaze. The guests trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 20-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 73-70. KL Dragons dominated on the defensive end, holding Petron Blaze to just 7 points in second quarter. They made 16-of-19 free shots (84.2 percent) during the game. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was forward Tiras Wade (200-81, college: La-Lafayette, agency: Interperformances) who scored 28 points, 6 assists and 5 steals. Center Brian Williams (208-87, college: Tennessee, agency: VVG Sports) chipped in 11 points and 16 rebounds. Forward Dalron Johnson (206-81, college: UNLV) produced a double-double by scoring 22 points and 14 rebounds for the hosts. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. KL Dragons have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 6-2 record behind leader Philip.Patriots. Petron Blaze at the other side keeps the third place with three games lost. KL Dragons are looking forward to face Satria Muda (#4) in Jakarta in the next round. Petron Blaze's supporters also look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Manila to the arena Philippine Patriots. Vietnamese Saigon Heat can celebrate finally their first win this season after seven consecutive loses. They used home court advantage to defeat Thailand Thailand Slammers (3-6) 60-55. American center Jonathan Jones (211-79, agency: TSS Management) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points, 11 rebounds and 4 blocks. Nguyen Dung contributed with 13 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. American forward Chaz Twan Briggs (201-80, college: W.Virginia) replied with 13 points and 7 rebounds for Thailand Slammers. Thailand Slammers' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Saigon Heat maintains eighth position with 1-7 record. It was Thailand Slammers' third loss in a row. They keep the seventh place with six games lost. Saigon Heat will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Thailand Slammers' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Bangkok Bangkok Cobras. Filipino leader Philippine Patriots delivered the seventh victory on Sunday night. This time they beat 6th ranked Thailand Bangkok Cobras (3-5) 80-72. Worth to mention a quality performance of Anthony Johnson who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 26 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists. Philippine Patriots' coach used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Jai Reyes responded with 21 points and 7 assists. Philippine Patriots (7-1) have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain first position. Loser Bangkok Cobras keep the sixth place with five games lost. Philippine Patriots will meet at home Petron Blaze (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Bangkok Cobras' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Bangkok to the arena Thailand Slammers. The game in Jakarta was also worth to mention about. One of their biggest challengers Singapore Singapore Slingers (4-5) played at the court of fifth ranked Indonesian Satria Muda (4-4). Satria Muda managed to secure a 8-point victory 65-57. The winners were led by Steve Thomas who had that evening a double-double by scoring 17 points, 12 rebounds and 4 blocks. Satria Muda moved-up to fourth place. Singapore Slingers lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the fifth position with five games lost. Satria Muda's next round opponent will be league's second-placed KL Dragons in Kuala Lumpur and it may be the game of the week.

Filipino leader Philippine Patriots delivered the seventh victory on Sunday night. This time they beat 6th ranked Thailand Bangkok Cobras (3-5) 80-72. Bangkok Cobras trailed by 13 points after 3 quarters before a 25-20 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 72-80 at the end of the game. Philippine Patriots looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Philippine Patriots made 10 blocks. Worth to mention a quality performance of American swingman Anthony Johnson (197-79, college: La-Lafayette, agency: Interperformances) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 26 points, 13 rebounds and 6 assists and guard Al Vergara (173-79) who added 2 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists during the contest. Philippine Patriots' coach used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Filipino guard Jai Reyes (173) responded with 21 points and 7 assists and Filipino guard Marvin Cruz (173-84) scored 21 points. Philippine Patriots (7-1) have an impressive six-game winning streak. They maintain first position. Loser Bangkok Cobras keep the sixth place with five games lost. Philippine Patriots will meet at home Petron Blaze (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Bangkok Cobras' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Bangkok to the arena Thailand Slammers. Top scorers:Philip.Patriots: A.Johnson 26+13reb+6ast, A.Larong 13, W.Ybanez 10+5ast, N.Miller 9+5reb, J.Fernandez 5+1ast, R.Wainwright 5+1rebBangkok C.: J.Reyes 21+2reb+7ast, M.Cruz 21+4reb+1ast, R.Kruatiwa 9+2reb+1ast, M.Earl 8+10reb+1ast, G.Lewis 7+11reb, K.Wanna 4

The game in Jakarta was also worth to mention about. One of their biggest challengers Singapore Singapore Slingers (4-5) played at the court of fifth ranked Indonesian Satria Muda (4-4). Satria Muda managed to secure a 8-point victory 65-57. The hosts were tied after three quarters but managed to speed up in last quarter eventually winning the game. Satria Muda outrebounded Singapore Slingers 52-29 including a 30-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. The winners were led by American power forward Steve Thomas (204-81, college: Middle Tenn.St.) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 17 points, 12 rebounds and 4 blocks and point guard Mario Wuysang (176-79) supported him with 21 points. Even 20 points and 7 rebounds by American center Donald Little (211-78, college: Cincinnati) did not help to save the game for Singapore Slingers. His fellow American import power forward Louis Graham (205-84, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) added 15 points and 11 rebounds for the guests. Satria Muda moved-up to fourth place. Singapore Slingers lost fourth consecutive game. They dropped to the fifth position with five games lost. Satria Muda's next round opponent will be league's second-placed KL Dragons in Kuala Lumpur and it may be the game of the week. Top scorers:Satria Muda: M.Wuysang 21+3reb+2ast, S.Thomas 17+12reb+1ast, J.Smith 10+14reb+1ast, A.Salangsang 8+7reb+5ast, J.Uy 6+8reb+4ast, A.Prihantono 3+6reb+1astSingapore S.: D.Little 20+7reb+1ast, L.Graham 15+11reb, S.Yu Lim 9+4reb, D.Dulay 5+1reb+3ast, W.Long Wong 5+2reb+4ast, V.Canta 3+3reb+1ast

Vietnamese Saigon Heat can celebrate finally their first win this season after seven consecutive loses. They used home court advantage to defeat Thailand Thailand Slammers (3-6) 60-55. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 21-9. But Thailand Slammers won second period 16-9. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Saigon Heat forced 20 Thailand Slammers turnovers and had a 17-5 advantage in offensive rebounds. They brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. American center Jonathan Jones (211-79, agency: TSS Management) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points, 11 rebounds and 4 blocks. Forward Nguyen Dung (188-85) contributed with a double-double by scoring 13 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Four Saigon Heat players scored in double figures. American forward Chaz Twan Briggs (201-80, college: W.Virginia) replied with 13 points and 7 rebounds and his fellow American import center DeAndre Thomas (203-86, college: Robert Morris) added 12 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Thailand Slammers. Thailand Slammers' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Saigon Heat maintains eighth position with 1-7 record. It was Thailand Slammers' third loss in a row. They keep the seventh place with six games lost. Saigon Heat will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Thailand Slammers' supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Bangkok Bangkok Cobras. Top scorers:Saigon H.: J.Jones 18+11reb+1ast, N.Javier 17+2reb+1ast, N.Dung 13+13reb+3ast, O.Sophoeun 11+6reb, J.Smith 1+4reb+2ast, T.Pham 0Thailand S.: B.Bautista 13+1reb, C.Twan Briggs 13+7reb+2ast, D.Thomas 12+5reb+2ast, A.Lertmalaiporn 5+5reb, S.Supachai 4+3reb+1ast, C.Tolomia 4+2reb

The biggest surprise of round 8 in ASEAN League was Malaysian guest KL Dragons' (#2) road victory over Filipino Petron Blaze (#3) 73-70 on Saturday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Petron Blaze. The guests trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 20-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 73-70. KL Dragons dominated on the defensive end, holding Petron Blaze to just 7 points in second quarter. They made 16-of-19 free shots (84.2 percent) during the game. The game was dominated by American players. The best player for the winners was forward Tiras Wade (200-81, college: La-Lafayette, agency: Interperformances) who scored 28 points, 6 assists and 5 steals. Center Brian Williams (208-87, college: Tennessee, agency: VVG Sports) chipped in a double-double by scoring 11 points and 16 rebounds. Forward Dalron Johnson (206-81, college: UNLV) produced a double-double by scoring 22 points and 14 rebounds and power forward Douglas Thomas (206-83, college: Iowa) added 16 points and 12 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. KL Dragons have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 6-2 record behind leader Philip.Patriots. Petron Blaze at the other side keeps the third place with three games lost. KL Dragons are looking forward to face Satria Muda (#4) in Jakarta in the next round. Petron Blaze's supporters also look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Manila to the arena Philippine Patriots. Top scorers:KL Dragons: T.Wade 28+3reb+6ast, Y.Seng John Ng 12+3reb, B.Williams 11+16reb+3ast, P.Cabahug 8+1reb, S.Fai Loh 8, B.Guganeswaran 3+3reb+2astPetron Blaze: D.Johnson 22+14reb+3ast, D.Thomas 16+12reb+1ast, L.Avenido 9+4reb+2ast, S.Cabatu 7+2reb, A.Dimaunahan 6+2reb+1ast, B.Fernandez 5+1reb+1ast

NBL Round 21: Kings defeat Townsville Crocodiles in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket NewsThe teams have now bigger motivation at this stage of Regular Season. Every game can be crucial and decide about teams' position at the end of Regular Season.

The most exciting game of round 21 in the NBL took place in Sydney. This derby game ended with only two-point defeat on the road of 3rd placed Townsville Crocodiles (13-11) to seventh ranked Kings (9-14) 71-69 on Sunday evening. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. The former international center Julian Khazzouh (209-C-86) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 13 rebounds for the winners and naturalized Kazakhstan swingman Anatoly Bose (200-88, college: Nicholls St., agency: Priority Sports) chipped in 14 points and 6 rebounds. The best for the losing side was the former international forward Jacob Holmes (201-83) with 14 points and 9 rebounds. Kings maintains seventh place with 9-14 record. Townsville Crocodiles at the other side dropped to the fifth position with 11 games lost. Kings are looking forward to face higher ranked Gold Coast Blaze (#4) in Broadbeach in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Townsville Crocodiles will play at home against Melbourne Tigers and it may be a tough game between close rivals. The game between Top Four teams took place in Perth. Second-best host Perth Wildcats (16-8) lost to third ranked Cairns Taipans (14-10) 83-78. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Perth Wildcats. The former international power forward Alexander Loughton (205-83, college: ODU) nailed 20 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side and Jamar Wilson accounted for 15 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international forward Shawn Redhage (203-81, college: Arizona St., agency: Warren Sports International) came up with 19 points and 5 rebounds for Perth Wildcats in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Cairns Taipans maintains third place with 14-10 record having just two points less than leader Breakers. Defending champion Perth Wildcats keep the second position with eight games lost. Cairns Taipans will play against Gold Coast Blaze (#4) in Broadbeach in the next round. Perth Wildcats will play at home against the league's leader New Zealand Breakers in Auckland and it may be a tough game between close rivals. The game between Top Four teams took place in Auckland. First ranked host New Zealand Breakers (17-6) defeated 3rd placed Townsville Crocodiles (13-11). The best player for the winners was Gary Wilkinson who had a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was Edward Gill who recorded 17 points and 4 assists. New Zealand Breakers maintains first place with 17-6 record. Loser Townsville Crocodiles dropped to the fifth position with 11 games lost. New Zealand Breakers will meet league's second-placed Perth Wildcats on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Townsville Crocodiles will play against Melbourne Tigers and it may be a tough game between close rivals. The game in Findon was also worth to mention about. Second ranked Perth Wildcats (16-8) played at the court of 8th ranked Adelaide 36ers (7-16). Perth Wildcats defeated Adelaide 36ers 90-79. It was a good game for Damian Martin who led his team to a victory with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Defending champion maintains second place with 16-8 record behind leader Breakers. Adelaide 36ers at the other side keep the eighth position with 16 games lost. Perth Wildcats' next round opponent will be league's leader New Zealand Breakers in Auckland and it will be for sure the game of the week. Adelaide 36ers will play at home against Wollongong Hawks (#9) in Gwynneville and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Fifth ranked Gold Coast Blaze (13-9) beat at home 9th ranked Wollongong Hawks (6-17) by 13 points 85-72, which is the biggest margin this round on Sunday night. Adris Deleon stepped up and scored 16 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Gold Coast Blaze moved-up to fourth place. Wollongong Hawks lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 17 games lost. Gold Coast Blaze will face Kings (#7) in Sydney in the next round. Wollongong Hawks will play on the road against Adelaide 36ers in Findon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last two games of round 21 Blaze won against Hawks on the opponent's court 94-86. Tigers unfortunately lost to 36ers in a home game 83-92. The most impressive stats of the last round was 26 points and 8 assists by Chris Warren of 36ers.

The most exciting game of round 21 in the NBL took place in Sydney. This derby game ended with only two-point defeat on the road of 3rd placed Townsville Crocodiles (13-11) to seventh ranked Kings (9-14) 71-69 on Sunday evening. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. The former international center Julian Khazzouh (209-86) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 13 rebounds for the winners and naturalized Kazakhstan swingman Anatoly Bose (200-88, college: Nicholls St., agency: Priority Sports) chipped in 14 points and 6 rebounds. Four Kings players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was the former international forward Jacob Holmes (201-83) with 14 points and 9 rebounds and the former international center Luke Schenscher (216-82, college: Georgia Tech, agency: Priority Sports) scored 11 points and 7 rebounds. Kings maintains seventh place with 9-14 record. Townsville Crocodiles at the other side dropped to the fifth position with 11 games lost. Kings are looking forward to face higher ranked Gold Coast Blaze (#4) in Broadbeach in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Townsville Crocodiles will play at home against Melbourne Tigers and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Crocodiles: T.Blanchfield 15+5reb, J.Holmes 14+9reb, L.Schenscher 11+7reb+3ast, E.Gill 9+2reb+4ast, P.Crawford 6+2reb+2ast, C.Cedar 5+1astKings: L.Martin 15+2reb+5ast, B.Madgen 15+1reb, J.Khazzouh 15+13reb, A.Bose 14+6reb+2ast, A.Gynes 7+2reb, J.Grant 3+8reb+1ast

Fifth ranked Gold Coast Blaze (13-9) beat at home 9th ranked Wollongong Hawks (6-17) by 13 points 85-72, which is the biggest margin this round on Sunday night. The hosts trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 85-72. Gold Coast Blaze dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Wollongong Hawks' 40. They outrebounded Wollongong Hawks 36-22 including 23 on the defensive glass. Wollongong Hawks were plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. Dominican guard Adris Deleon (180-84, college: E.Washington) stepped up and scored 16 points and 5 rebounds for the winners and American power forward Will Hudson (206-89, college: Oakland) chipped in 15 points and 9 rebounds. Four Gold Coast Blaze players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American guard Ayinde Ubaka (193-85, college: California) with 18 points and the former international power forward Oscar Forman (205-82) scored 12 points. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Gold Coast Blaze moved-up to fourth place. Wollongong Hawks lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 17 games lost. Gold Coast Blaze will face Kings (#7) in Sydney in the next round. Wollongong Hawks will play on the road against Adelaide 36ers in Findon and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Hawks: A.Ubaka 18+3reb+2ast, O.Forman 12+2reb+1ast, T.Coenraad 9+2reb, L.Davidson 8+1reb+2ast, D.Gruber 8+2reb+1ast, R.Martin 6+2reb+5astBlaze: M.Worthington 17+2reb+3ast, A.Deleon 16+5reb+3ast, W.Hudson 15+9reb, A.Gibson 11+3reb+4ast, T.Garlepp 8+4reb+1ast, A.Petrie 6+5reb+2ast

The game between Top Four teams took place in Perth. Second-best host Perth Wildcats (16-8) lost to third ranked Cairns Taipans (14-10) 83-78. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Perth Wildcats. Perth Wildcats were ahead by 11 points at the halftime before a 26-9 third quarter run of Cairns Taipans. They made 16-of-18 charity shots (88.9 percent) during the game. The former international power forward Alexander Loughton (205-83, college: ODU) nailed 20 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side and American point guard Jamar Wilson (185-84, college: Albany, agency: Pro One Sports) accounted for 15 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Four Cairns Taipans players scored in double figures. The former international forward Shawn Redhage (203-81, college: Arizona St., agency: Warren Sports International) came up with 19 points and 5 rebounds and American guard Kevin Lisch (188-86, college: St.Louis, agency: Warren Sports International) added 21 points respectively for Perth Wildcats in the defeat. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Cairns Taipans maintains third place with 14-10 record having just two points less than leader Breakers. Defending champion Perth Wildcats keep the second position with eight games lost. Cairns Taipans will play against Gold Coast Blaze (#4) in Broadbeach in the next round. Perth Wildcats will play at home against the league's leader New Zealand Breakers in Auckland and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Wildcats: K.Lisch 21+3reb+2ast, S.Redhage 19+5reb+3ast, L.Nevill 12+6reb+2ast, D.Martin 8+5reb+2ast, J.Wagstaff 8+4reb+1ast, B.Robbins 5+2reb+2astTaipans: A.Loughton 20+6reb+1ast, A.Warren 17+4reb+3ast, J.Wilson 15+6reb+5ast, B.Hill 10+2reb+2ast, A.Grabau 10+2reb, I.Crosswhite 5+9reb+6ast

The game between Top Four teams took place in Auckland. First ranked host New Zealand Breakers (17-6) defeated 3rd placed Townsville Crocodiles (13-11). The game was mostly controlled by New Zealand Breakers. Townsville Crocodiles managed to win second period 23-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Townsville Crocodiles 40-27 including 25 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was American power forward Gary Wilkinson (204-82, college: Utah St.) who had a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds. His fellow American import guard Cedric Jackson (191-86, college: Cleveland St.) chipped in 15 points and 7 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was American point guard Edward Gill (184-78, college: Weber St., agency: Priority Sports) who recorded 17 points and 4 assists and the former international forward Jacob Holmes (201-83) added 11 points and 7 rebounds respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. New Zealand Breakers maintains first place with 17-6 record. Loser Townsville Crocodiles dropped to the fifth position with 11 games lost. New Zealand Breakers will meet league's second-placed Perth Wildcats on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Townsville Crocodiles will play against Melbourne Tigers and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Crocodiles: E.Gill 17+2reb+4ast, P.Crawford 11+1reb, J.Holmes 11+7reb, E.Mims 10+6reb, M.Cedar 8+3reb, L.Schenscher 8+2rebBreakers: G.Wilkinson 18+10reb+1ast, C.Jackson 15+4reb+7ast, T.Abercrombie 13+7reb, A.Pledger 11+3reb+1ast, C.Bruton 9+3reb, M.Vukona 9+3reb+2ast

The game in Findon was also worth to mention about. Second ranked Perth Wildcats (16-8) played at the court of 8th ranked Adelaide 36ers (7-16). Perth Wildcats defeated Adelaide 36ers 90-79. The game without a history. Perth Wildcats led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 16-of-18 charity shots (88.9 percent) during the game. Perth Wildcats forced 19 Adelaide 36ers turnovers. They shot the lights out from three nailing 12 long-distance shots on high 57.1 percentage. It was a good game for international point guard Damian Martin (188-84, college: Loyola Mary) who led his team to a victory with 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. American guard Kevin Lisch (188-86, college: St.Louis, agency: Warren Sports International) contributed with 23 points for the winners. Center Daniel Johnson (212-88, college: Pepperdine) answered with 24 points and 8 rebounds and international swingman Stephen Weigh (198-87) added 12 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Adelaide 36ers. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Defending champion maintains second place with 16-8 record behind leader Breakers. Adelaide 36ers at the other side keep the eighth position with 16 games lost. Perth Wildcats' next round opponent will be league's leader New Zealand Breakers in Auckland and it will be for sure the game of the week. Adelaide 36ers will play at home against Wollongong Hawks (#9) in Gwynneville and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:36ers: D.Johnson 24+8reb+2ast, S.Weigh 12+6reb+3ast, C.Warren 12+4reb, E.Bartlett 11+3reb+2ast, D.Simpson 8+6reb, W.Helliwell 6+2rebWildcats: K.Lisch 23+3reb+1ast, J.Wagstaff 17+6reb+1ast, D.Martin 16+7reb+5ast, S.Redhage 13+2reb+3ast, L.Nevill 6+6reb, B.Robbins 4+3reb+2ast

Very expected game in Gwynneville where 9th ranked Wollongong Hawks (6-17) were defeated by fifth ranked Gold Coast Blaze (13-9) 94-86 on Friday. The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 8-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 94-86. Gold Coast Blaze made 25-of-29 free shots (86.2 percent) during the game. The former international forward Mark Worthington (202-83, college: Metro St.) stepped up and scored 26 points and 7 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) for the winners and the former international power forward Anthony Petrie (203-83) chipped in 19 points and 8 rebounds. The best for the losing side was American guard Ayinde Ubaka (193-85, college: California) with 24 points and 4 assists and guard Rhys Martin (193-86, college: Nova SE) scored 14 points and 4 assists. Five Gold Coast Blaze and four Wollongong Hawks players scored in double figures. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Gold Coast Blaze moved-up to fourth place. Wollongong Hawks lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 17 games lost. Gold Coast Blaze will face Kings (#7) in Sydney in the next round. Wollongong Hawks will play on the road against Adelaide 36ers in Findon and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Hawks: A.Ubaka 24+4reb+4ast, R.Martin 14+4reb+4ast, G.Saville 13+2reb+3ast, J.Catron 10+2reb+2ast, O.Forman 9+6reb+2ast, L.Davidson 7+4reb+1astBlaze: M.Worthington 26+7reb+1ast, A.Petrie 19+8reb+2ast, A.Deleon 15+5reb+4ast, W.Hudson 14+4reb+1ast, A.Gibson 10+1reb+5ast, C.Goulding 4+1ast

There was a small surprise when eighth ranked Adelaide 36ers (7-16) defeated on the road 6th ranked Melbourne Tigers (10-14) 92-83 on Saturday. The guests trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 1-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 92-83. Adelaide 36ers made 24-of-28 free shots (85.7 percent) during the game. They shot the lights out from three sinking 14 long-distance shots on high 58.3 percentage. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Adelaide 36ers made 7 blocks. American guard Chris Warren (178-88, college: Mississippi) stepped up and scored 26 points and 8 assists (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field) for the winners and center Daniel Johnson (212-88, college: Pepperdine) chipped in 18 points and 6 rebounds. The best for the losing side was international power forward Cameron Tragardh (209-83, college: ORU) with 19 points and American swingman Ronald Dorsey (197-83, college: McNeese St.) scored 16 points and 5 rebounds. Five Adelaide 36ers and four Melbourne Tigers players scored in double figures. Melbourne Tigers' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Adelaide 36ers maintains eighth place with 7-16 record. Loser Melbourne Tigers keep the sixth position with 14 games lost. Adelaide 36ers will face bottom-ranked Wollongong Hawks (#9) in Gwynneville in the next round. Top scorers:Tigers: C.Tragardh 19+4reb+2ast, R.Dorsey 16+5reb+2ast, T.Greer 14+2reb+1ast, D.Dillon 10+2reb+5ast, L.Walker 9+9reb, B.Lewis 7+2reb+1ast36ers: C.Warren 26+1reb+8ast, D.Johnson 18+6reb+2ast, D.Ng 15+1reb+1ast, D.Simpson 13+10reb+1ast, E.Bartlett 11+4reb+2ast, S.Weigh 7+5reb+2ast

THOUGHTS FROM THE SIDELINE - by Ozell Wells THOUGHTS FROM THE SIDELINE

The all star break is upon us and the normal expected run of the mill, skills competition, slam dunk contest and the rookie/sophomore challenge will draw loads of fans into the arena and glue them to their television sets. The biggest thing missing is that NO ONE IS DISCUSSING the AGREED UPON LEAGUE WIDE ROSTER REDUCTION!Yes, the NBA received agreement on Friday of a league wide reduction of roster spots for each team. The owners have agreed to 13 roster spots for players on each team, subject to approval from the NBAPA, we will see a little bit of a shakeup; as we are already experiencing a shortened season, due to the player lockout which spanned from June to December of 2011. After sitting through months of debating, false media spin and tell tales across the globe, players testing the international waters (some to be released and others to be locked into contracts with no way out), and then treated to a Christmas Extravaganza which was pretty much beyond belief as clubs, after a mere two week training camp, played a type of basketball similar to watching men just off of work playing at the local health club. The most amazing thing in all of that was that the gen pop, there is that correctional facility talk again, were so very happy and eager to have the NBA back; like the long-lost lover gone astray but returning home. The public accepted THE LEAGUE back with warm,inviting arms. Never questioning the product that they were then presented with, ALL ATTENTION turning to how many points Lebron or Kobe scored, or if D Rose was ready to assume his title as THE NEXT KING OF THE HILL in the NBA. It seemed as if everyone turned a deaf ear or a blind eye to the Breakup of Kobe Bryant and his wife, with their children left as the collateral damage in the wake of things, or the awful loss of a career by the two players who signed meaningful, substantial contracts,only to find out that they suffered from life-threatening illnesses, which subsequently voided the contracts.Often tine, once a lover returns, we tend to look beyond the reasons for the separation, and in our joy for a return to the normal way of life; we also tend to not see things for what they are. The NBA, after its rushed training camps and in the midst of a season of games with long road trips sandwiched into a season if we can honestly call this a basketball season. What I have seen, been interviewed about and have been writing about weekly to you, is not what I dreamed of most of my young life. The games that would not ever reach 100 points, the defensive struggles where both teams would only score 80 points apiece, the BAD BOYS of the late '80's winning back to back NBA Titles solely on defensive intensity and a will to win. What we have been presented with is, a very large group of overpaid, athletes who have taken it upon themselves to demand to be traded to what they believe are better markets; where they can promote their brand. Where the athletes appears to be in control of everything, leaving behind damaged families in their wake, fatherless children often times and entire cities devoid of their local hero, due to him feeling under-appreciated and desiring to play in front of star studded audiences....TOTALLY UNTOLERABLY UNFAIR.Unfair in that the basketball purists are left watching something that has been thrown together and not given proper time to become truly indicative of the GREATEST GAME ON EARTH. What we have, as I talked about in previous thoughts from the sideline is A PLAYER'S LEAGUE, in which the players call the shots, periodically have coaches fired and routinely do not follow instructions in the end of close games. The fan's always so trusting and loving care not for the unemployed coaches who only wanted to instill some order amongst the chaotic situation that they saw on the horizon, or the loyal fans who feel betrayed for loving to their fullest, a player or players who have shunned the love, affection and devotion.Gone are the days where a player would play out his career in one city, his name becoming synonymous with the team. Reggie Miller- Indiana Pacers, Isaiah Thomas-Detroit Pistons, Larry Bird-Boston Celtics, or Magic Johnson-LA Lakers as examples. Players chasing the bright lights of the big cities and the flash of the cameras have left us with a shell of what once was a thing of beauty. I do feel that the game is evolving, as evidenced by the bright spots on the radar the Jeremy Lin, Rodney Monroe, Isaiah Thomas, Blake Griffin or even Rickey Rubio. The game can and will return to what we once saw, admired and fell in love with. Speaking of which, the Kings have unearthed a point guard. Second round steal Isaiah Thomas started the last four games and averaged 19 points, six assists and 51% mostly from point blank range because no one seems to be able to stay in front of him.I would like to wish each and every one of you a happy and eventful ALL STAR WEEKEND, and hope that you enjoy the show, the dunks, the long range bombs and the star studded halftime events. Please in the midst of all of the hoopla, recall in your mind, the beauty of the game and the simplicity of it when it is played the right way, both on and off of the court.

Baltic League round 17 best performance: Edgaras Zelionis - by Eurobasket NewsCenter Edgaras Zelionis (207-C-89) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Rudupis, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 17.The 22-year old player was the main contributor (32 points, five rebounds) to his team's victory, helping them to beat Liepaja (#11, 3-16) 94-79. Rudupis is placed at 4th position in Baltic League . They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Rudupis will need more victories to improve their 11-6 record. In the team's last game Zelionis had a remarkable 92.3% from 2-point range. It's his second year at Rudupis and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Edgaras Zelionis averages this season 9.2ppg.

The second best player in last round's games was 24-year old Ukrainian Roman Gumeniuk (221-C-87) of Juventus. Gumeniuk had a very good evening with a double-double of 13 points and 14 rebounds. It was enough for Juventus to edge slightly lower-ranked Pieno Zvaigzdes (#8, 7-10) 67-65. This victory allowed Juventus to move up to 7th position in . His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 8-10 record. Gumeniuk is a newcomer at Juventus and despite he is not a team leader yet, every game he becomes more reliable player. Hopefully performances like the last one will happen more often.

Third on the list of top players last round was guard Sarunas Vasiliauskas (188-G-89, agency: Alti Sport) of league's top team Techasas. Vasiliauskas showcased his all-around game by recording 14 points, five rebounds and nine assists in the last round. He was a key player of Lietkabelis, leading his team to a 109-67 easy win against #4 ranked Barsy Atyrau in a game of the week. Lietkabelis confirms their top position in Quarterfinal Vasiliauskas has a very solid season. In 5 games in Baltic League he scored 13.4ppg.

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

Two more Bosnian youngsters show well for Slovenia! - by Chris MathieuTwo more Bosnian youngsters show well for Slovenia! Two more Bosnian youngsters played well for a Slovenian club this weekend in the Belgrade Tournament. Bosnian youngsters Jusuf Nurkic (208cm 1994 Forward) and Emir Sulejmanovic (204cm 1995 center) played well for Union Olympia in the Junior tournament held in Belgrade. Union Olympia struggled overall placing 7th in the tournament but it was no fault of these two bright spots for the team from Bosnia. Nurkic got off to a great start in the first game scoring 25 points with 10 rebounds 2 assists 3 steals and 7 blocks! He had a 42 point ranking in the game but the team lost by four points to IJT Mega Vizura. Sulejmanovic scored 2 points with 9 rebounds and a block.Against Red Star Belgrade the team was crushed 110-51 and both players struggled. Nurkic scored 11 points with 1 rebound and 1 block. Sulejmanovic scored 9 points 3 rebounds 1 steal and 1 block.Against Alba Berlin they lost again in a close match 79-74 in overtime. Nurkic had another great game 24 points 17 rebounds 1 block and had a ranking of 34. Sulejmanovic had 7 points 8 rebounds and two steals.Olympia lost another close game against INSEP 66-61. Nurkic had 13 points 12 rebounds 2 steals and a block. Sulejmanovic had 12 points 5 rebounds and 4 steals. Olympia finally won in the placement game for 7th place against Alba Berlin 80-65. Nurkic 21 points 15 rebounds and 2 steals and 1 assist with a ranking of 35. Sulejmanovic had his best game with 15 points 8 rebounds 1 assist and one steal.

Sao Jose/Vinac beat Flamengo on the road - by Eurobasket NewsFlamengo suffered the fourth defeat in the season. They surrendered against Sao Jose/Vinac at home court to slip at 15-4 record. Sao Jose in the meantime climbed at 16-4 record and the second place in the ladder following an 85:79 road success. Murilo Becker (210-C/F-83) stepped up with 19 points and 8 rebounds to pace the visitors. Jefferson Antonio (207-F/C-83) added 18 points in the victory. Flamengo enjoyed a 20:14 lead after ten minutes but Sao Jose went on a 22:9 run in the second term and never looked back en route to the victory. Marcelo Magalhaes (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) finished with 27 points for Flamengo. Uniceub/BRB celebrated the fifth win in a row. They toppled Winner/Limeira 83:77 away from home. Guilherme Giovannoni (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances) and Welington Dos Santos (185-PG-81) accounted for 19 points each in the victory. Ronald Ramon (185-G-86, college: Pittsburgh) answered with 18 points for Winner/Limeira. Uberlandia fired past Itabom/Bauru 96:80 to climb at 15-6 record. Evandro Soro (190-G-80) chipped in 19 points for the winners. Luis Felipe Gruber (205-F-85) contributed 18 points for the hosts. Larry Taylor (185-G-80, college: Missouri Western) topscored with 22 points for Itabom/Bauru as the fell at 12-7 record.

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BULGARIA

NBL Round 19: Leader Lukoil Academik loses to Tundja Yambol - by Eurobasket NewsTop ranked Lukoil Academik (17-2) recorded its second loss on the court of fourth ranked Tundja Yambol on Saturday night. Visitors were edged by Tundja Yambol 78-75. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Lukoil Academik. The hosts trailed by 8 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 2-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 78-75. Tundja Yambol dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Lukoil Academik's 30. American center John Ofoegbu (206-C-84, college: Idaho St.) fired 19 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. The former international guard Julian Radionov (188-79) chipped in 21 points. Croatian center Bruno Sundov (221-80, agency: Alti Sport) produced 23 points and 7 rebounds for lost side. Lukoil Academik's coach Marin Dokuzovski rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Tundja Yambol (11-8) moved-up to third place, which they share with Rilski Sportist. Defending champion Lukoil Academik still keeps top position with two games lost. Tundja Yambol is looking forward to face Balkan (#6) in Botevgrad in the next round. Lukoil Academik will play on the road against Chernomorets (#8) in Burgas and is hoping to win this game. The game in Burgas was also worth to mention about. Second ranked Levski Sofia (16-3) played at the court of 8th ranked Chernomorets (2-17). Levski Sofia defeated Chernomorets 88-76. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Marcus Hall (185-85, college: Colorado) who helped to win the game recording 23 points and 5 assists (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). Stefan Georgiev contributed with 16 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Levski Sofia's coach Konstantin Papazov allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Slovenian guard Dejan Dunovic (193-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) answered with 24 points and 4 assists for Chernomorets. Levski Sofia have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain second place with 16-3 record behind leader Lukoil Academik. Chernomorets lost ninth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 17 games lost. Levski Sofia will play against Rilski Sportist (#3) in Samokov in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Chernomorets will play at home against the league's leader Lukoil Academik (#1) in Sofia and hopes to get back on the winning track.

In the last two games of round 19 Spartak Pleven was defeated by Rilski Sportist in Samokov 80-75. Cherno More was beaten by Balkan at home 54-66. The best stats of 19th round was 30 points and 14 rebounds by Filip Vukosavljevic of Rilski Sportist.

Chernomorets - Levski Sofia 76-88The game in Burgas was also worth to mention about. Second ranked Levski Sofia (16-3) played at the court of 8th ranked Chernomorets (2-17). Levski Sofia defeated Chernomorets 88-76. The game without a history. Levski Sofia led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Chernomorets' 42. Levski Sofia forced 22 Chernomorets turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Marcus Hall (185-85, college: Colorado) who helped to win the game recording 23 points and 5 assists (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). International power forward Stefan Georgiev (206-78) contributed with 16 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Levski Sofia's coach Konstantin Papazov allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Slovenian guard Dejan Dunovic (193-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) answered with 24 points and 4 assists and FYR Macedonian center Kiril Pavlovski (210-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) added 19 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Chernomorets. Levski Sofia have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain second place with 16-3 record behind leader Lukoil Academik. Chernomorets lost ninth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 17 games lost. Levski Sofia will play against Rilski Sportist (#3) in Samokov in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Chernomorets will play at home against the league's leader Lukoil Academik (#1) in Sofia and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Chernomorets: D.Dunovic 24+4ast, K.Pavlovski 19+7reb, K.Koev 11+1reb+3ast, D.Roshmanov 8+3reb+2ast, A.Penev 6+2reb+2ast, T.Zahariev 4+3rebLevski Sofia: M.Hall 23+3reb+5ast, S.Georgiev 16+8reb+2ast, D.Anguelov 14+5reb+1ast, J.Bozov 8+1reb, J.Howell 7+2reb+4ast, P.Ivanov 7+2reb+3ast

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Tundja Yambol - Lukoil Academik 78-75Top ranked Lukoil Academik (17-2) recorded its second loss on the court of fourth ranked Tundja Yambol on Saturday night. Visitors were edged by Tundja Yambol 78-75. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Lukoil Academik. The hosts trailed by 8 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 2-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 78-75. Tundja Yambol dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Lukoil Academik's 30. American center John Ofoegbu (206-84, college: Idaho St.) fired 19 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. The former international guard Julian Radionov (188-79) chipped in 21 points. Croatian center Bruno Sundov (221-80, agency: Alti Sport) produced 23 points and 7 rebounds and American forward Lamont Mack (201-87, college: Charlotte) added 14 points respectively for lost side. Lukoil Academik's coach Marin Dokuzovski rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Tundja Yambol (11-8) moved-up to third place, which they share with Rilski Sportist. Defending champion Lukoil Academik still keeps top position with two games lost. Tundja Yambol is looking forward to face Balkan (#6) in Botevgrad in the next round. Lukoil Academik will play on the road against Chernomorets (#8) in Burgas and is hoping to win this game. Top scorers:Lukoil Academik: B.Sundov 23+7reb, L.Mack 14+4reb+1ast, B.Avramov 11+1reb+1ast, B.Heath 8+5reb+5ast, T.Stoykov 7+1reb+2ast, A.Owens 6+2reb+2astTundja Yambol: J.Radionov 21+2reb+3ast, J.Ofoegbu 19+9reb, T.Gugino 15+8reb, S.Govedarov 8+5reb+8ast, M.Jefferson 8+1reb+1ast, S.Petkov 5+3reb

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Rilski Sportist - Spartak Pleven 80-75There was no surprise in Samokov where 7th ranked Spartak Pleven (3-16) was defeated by fourth ranked Rilski Sportist (11-8) 80-75. Spartak Pleven was ahead by 6 points after three quarters before a 22-11 charge of Rilski Sportist, which allowed them to win the game. They dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Spartak Pleven's 36. They outrebounded Spartak Pleven 43-29 including 28 on the defensive glass. It was a very good performance for Serbian power forward Filip Vukosavljevic (205-83) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 30 points and 14 rebounds. Serbian guard Branko Mirkovic (190-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) contributed with 21 points and 4 assists for the winners. The former international forward Ilia Stankov (198-76) answered with 25 points and guard Tsvetoslav Ostrev (184-86) added 18 points and 4 assists in the effort for Spartak Pleven. Four Spartak Pleven players scored in double figures. Rilski Sportist moved-up to third place, which they share with Tundja Yambol. Spartak Pleven at the other side keeps the seventh position with 16 games lost. Rilski Sportist will play against league's second-placed Levski Sofia on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Spartak Pleven will play against Euroins Cherno More (#5) in Varna and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Spartak Pleven: I.Stankov 25+4reb+2ast, T.Ostrev 18+4reb+4ast, V.Georgiev 12+4reb+2ast, R.Sofroniev 11+4reb+1ast, S.Tsenov 7+10reb+2ast, A.Dyakovski 2+3reb+4astRilski Sportist: F.Vukosavljevic 30+14reb+2ast, B.Mirkovic 21+3reb+4ast, A.Bilobrk 15+2reb, A.Velikov 7+7reb+2ast, M.Marinov 3+4reb+2ast, S.Vaklinov 2+4reb

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Cherno More - Balkan 54-66We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams in Varna where sixth ranked Balkan (7-12) defeated 5th ranked Euroins Cherno More (9-10) 66-54. The game was mostly controlled by Balkan. Euroins Cherno More was better in fourth quarter 15-10. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Euroins Cherno More 49-31 including 16 on the offensive glass. Balkan brought some defensive toughness making 8 blocks. It was a very good performance for guard Stanimir Marinov (191-91) who helped to win the game recording 23 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. Power forward Dimitar Marintchechki (201-90, agency: Dynamics Global Management) contributed with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. The former international power forward Georgi Davidov (205-76) answered with 13 points and 6 rebounds and guard Vasil Kyosev (195-90) added 10 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Euroins Cherno More. Euroins Cherno More's coach tested eleven players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Balkan maintains sixth place with 7-12 record. Euroins Cherno More at the other side keeps the fifth position with ten games lost. Balkan will play against higher ranked Tundja Yambol (#4) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Euroins Cherno More will play against Spartak Pleven and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Cherno More: G.Davidov 13+6reb+1ast, P.Aleksiev 12+1reb+5ast, V.Kyosev 10+7reb+3ast, N.Kolev 8+3reb, S.Iliev 6+5reb, J.Hunt 3+1reb+5astBalkan: S.Marinov 23+7reb+4ast, D.Marintchechki 10+13reb, I.Kasabov 9+4reb+3ast, D.Filipov 6+2reb+3ast, D.Marojevic 6+12reb+1ast, L.Lilov 5+8reb+3ast

CIS Round 33 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket NewsThe Regular Season in CIS just ended.

The biggest surprise of round 33 was guest Rouge et Or's (#4) road victory over Gaiters (#5) 87-76 on Friday evening. The game was mostly controlled by Rouge et Or. Gaiters managed to win second period 24-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. 24 personal fouls committed by Gaiters helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was naturalized Bosnian forward Boris Hadzimuratovic (204-91, college: High School) who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 15 rebounds. Swingman Etienne Labrecque (196-86, college: Quinnipiac) chipped in 22 points. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Jeremy Leonard-Smith (193) who recorded 20 points. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Rouge et Or maintains fourth place with 5-11 record. Gaiters at the other side keep the fifth position with 12 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Important game to mention about took place in Halifax, NS. Sixth ranked Tigers (9-11) saved a 3-point victory at home edging 7th ranked Varsity Reds (7-13) 78-75 in the game for the fifth place. It was a good game for Cameroonian forward William Yengue (193) who led his team to a victory with 23 points and 8 rebounds. Casey Fox contributed with 21 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Michael Fosu answered with 14 points and 7 rebounds for Varsity Reds. Varsity Reds' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Tigers moved-up to fifth place, which they share with St.Mary's. Varsity Reds at the other side dropped to the sixth position with 13 games lost. They share it with Brandon. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Quebec City, QC. First ranked Stingers faced 4th placed Rouge et Or. Guests from Montreal, QC (14-2) smashed host Rouge et Or (5-11) 84-60. Kyle Desmarais stepped up and scored 21 points for the winners. The best for the losing side was Thibaud Dezutter with 14 points and 4 assists. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Stingers have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 14-2 record. Loser Rouge et Or keeps the fourth position with 11 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Charlottetown, PEI. Third ranked Panthers faced 4th placed Capers. Host Panthers (13-7) defeated guests from Sydney, NS (11-9) 96-79. Manock Lual nailed 24 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 7 steals for the winning side. Panthers maintains third place with 13-7 record having just three points less than leader Lakehead which they share with defeated Capers. Capers at the other side dropped to the third position with nine games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Montreal, QC. Second ranked Redmen faced 3rd placed Citadines. Guests from Montreal, QC (10-6) defeated host Citadines (7-9) 61-50. The best player for the winners was Vincent Dufort who scored 9 points and 6 rebounds. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Redmen maintains second place with 10-6 record having ten points less than leader Lakehead. Loser Citadines keep the third position with nine games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.

Other games of round 33 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are: Memorial were defeated by Acadia in Wolfville, NS 83-75. St.Francis X. smashed St.Mary's at home 84-54. Memorial were destroyed by Acadia on the opponent's court 100-76. Concordia managed to outperform UQAM in a home game 80-62. Acadia managed to beat St.Mary's on the road 73-65. McGill defeated Bishop's on its own court 67-58. New Brunsw. beat Dalhousie in Fredericton, NB 68-57. The best stats of 33th round was 23 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals by Anthony Ashe of Acadia.

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Quebec City, QC. First ranked Stingers faced 4th placed Rouge et Or. Guests from Montreal, QC (14-2) smashed host Rouge et Or (5-11) 84-60. Stingers made 21-of-26 free shots (80.8 percent) during the game. They also forced 21 Rouge et Or turnovers and outrebounded them 39-28 including a 28-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. International point guard Kyle Desmarais (188-87, college: Cent.Conn.St.) stepped up and scored 21 points for the winners and guard Decee Krah (180) chipped in 15 points. The best for the losing side was Thibaud Dezutter with 14 points and 4 assists and guard Xavier Baribeau (175-87) scored 16 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Stingers have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 14-2 record. Loser Rouge et Or keeps the fourth position with 11 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:Laval: X.Baribeau 16+2reb, T.Dezutter 14+4reb+4ast, E.Labrecque 8+2reb+1ast, B.Hadzimuratovic 8+5reb, R.Mathieu 6+2reb, A.Guilard 4+3rebConcordia: K.Desmarais 21+2reb+1ast, D.Krah 15, J.Blake 13+2reb, J.Clark 9+3reb+1ast, J.Moussignac 7+4reb+2ast, E.Laroche 6+4reb+2ast

There was no surprise in Wolfville, NS where 8th ranked Sea Hawks (1-19) were defeated by second ranked Axemen (14-6) 83-75 on Sunday. The hosts trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 48-39 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Axemen made 24-of-26 free shots (92.3 percent) during the game. They also forced 20 Sea Hawks turnovers. The best player for the winners was guard Anthony Ashe (193) who scored 23 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists and 5 steals. Guard Anthony Sears (193) chipped in 14 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Four Axemen players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was center Jason Shepherd (193-89) who recorded 19 points and 8 rebounds and naturalized British swingman Mike Helsby (195-89) added 16 points and 7 rebounds respectively. Axemen have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain second place with 14-6 record having just two points less than leader Lakehead, which they share with Alberta. Sea Hawks lost eighteenth consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 19 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:Memorial: J.Shepherd 19+8reb+3ast, M.Helsby 16+7reb+2ast, R.Habib 10+8reb+2ast, M.Woodland 9+1reb+5ast, R.Wood 8+1reb+1ast, J.Alliman 8+7rebAcadia: A.Ashe 23+9reb+4ast, J.Tull 16+2reb+1ast, A.Sears 14+7reb+5ast, B.States 11+8reb+1ast, S.Stoqua 9+5reb+3ast, T.Scott 6+1reb

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Charlottetown, PEI. Third ranked Panthers faced 4th placed Capers. Host Panthers (13-7) defeated guests from Sydney, NS (11-9) 96-79. The game was mostly controlled by Panthers. Capers was better in third quarter 30-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Sudanese forward Manock Lual (198-89) nailed 24 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 7 steals for the winning side and forward Jermaine Duke (198) accounted for 17 points, 14 rebounds and 4 blocks. Five Panthers players scored in double figures. American guard Jimmy Dorsey (188) came up with 27 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists and Arild Geugjes added 13 points and 7 rebounds respectively for Capers in the defeat. Panthers maintains third place with 13-7 record having just three points less than leader Lakehead which they share with defeated Capers. Capers at the other side dropped to the third position with nine games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:Cape Breton: J.Dorsey 27+6reb+7ast, A.Geugjes 13+7reb, J.Smith 12+3reb+2ast, A.Alilovic 9+8reb+1ast, M.Lufile 9+6reb+1ast, J.Glasgow 5+1astUPEI: M.Lual 24+7reb+5ast, J.Cooper 18+4reb+7ast, J.Duke 17+14reb, G.Doane 13+7reb+1ast, D.Moss 12+5reb+3ast, O.Smith 7+2reb+2ast

No shocking result in a game in Antigonish, NS where first ranked X-Men (16-4) smashed 5th ranked Huskies (9-11) 84-54 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 84-54. X-Men outrebounded Huskies 46-35 including 33 on the defensive glass. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when X-Men made 8 blocks. The best player for the winners was guard Terry Thomas (193) who scored 23 points and 8 rebounds. The former international forward Bol Kong (198, college: Gonzaga) chipped in 14 points and 8 rebounds. X-Men's coach Steve Konchalski felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Tory Fassett who recorded 15 points and 7 rebounds and Brian Rouse added 10 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists respectively. X-Men have an impressive series of seven victories in a row. They maintain first place with 16-4 record, which they share with Saskatchewan. Loser Huskies keep the fifth position with 11 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:St.Mary's: T.Fassett 15+7reb+1ast, B.Rouse 10+5reb+4ast, M.Pink 9+5reb+2ast, W.Liang 6+2reb, J.Smith 5+6reb+1ast, H.Ezenibe 4+4reb+2astSt.Francis X.: T.Thomas 23+8reb+1ast, B.Kong 14+8reb+3ast, K.Rasenberg 8+2reb+1ast, W.Donkoh 7+2ast, J.Dunn 7+3reb+3ast, R.Madera 6+4reb+1ast

Very expected game in Wolfville, NS where 8th ranked Sea Hawks (1-19) were rolled over by second ranked Axemen (14-6) 100-76 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by Axemen. Sea Hawks was better in fourth quarter 31-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Axemen forced 22 Sea Hawks turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. The best player for the winners was point guard Sean Stoqua (180) who scored 24 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Guard Anthony Ashe (193) chipped in 16 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Four Axemen players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was naturalized British swingman Mike Helsby (195-89) who recorded 13 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals and forward Robbie Habib (193-89) added 21 points respectively. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Axemen have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain second place with 14-6 record having just two points less than leader Lakehead, which they share with Alberta. Sea Hawks lost eighteenth consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 19 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:Memorial: R.Habib 21+2reb, M.Helsby 13+8reb+7ast, M.Woodland 12+2reb+4ast, R.Wood 8+1reb+2ast, J.Alliman 7+6reb+2ast, C.Gould 7+2rebAcadia: S.Stoqua 24+6reb+4ast, A.Sears 17+1reb+2ast, A.Ashe 16+5reb+5ast, T.Scott 10+2reb+2ast, J.Tull 10+1reb+2ast, B.States 7+6reb+3ast

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Montreal, QC. Second ranked Redmen faced 3rd placed Citadines. Guests from Montreal, QC (10-6) defeated host Citadines (7-9) 61-50. The guests trailed by 12 points after first quarter, but they stormed back and won the game by 11 points. Redmen dominated on the defensive end, holding Citadines to just 5 points in fourth quarter. They also forced 20 Citadines turnovers and outrebounded them 42-30 including 27 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was Vincent Dufort who scored 9 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Tristan Renaud-Tremblay (201) chipped in 8 points and 8 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Gregory Saint-Amand (193-88) who recorded a double-double by scoring 13 points and 10 rebounds and guard Eric Cote-Kougnima (193-88) added 12 points respectively. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Redmen maintains second place with 10-6 record having ten points less than leader Lakehead. Loser Citadines keep the third position with nine games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:UQAM: G.Saint-Amand 13+10reb, E.Cote-Kougnima 12+4reb, T.Justin 5+1reb, M.Bazile 5+6reb, K.Bitondo 4+4reb, P.Tamba 4+1reb+1astMcGill: A.Mitrovic 10+5reb, V.Dufort 9+6reb+2ast, T.Riley 9+2reb, K.Sy-Morissette 8+4reb+2ast, T.Renaud-Tremblay 8+8reb, W.Clark 6+4reb+1ast

The biggest surprise of round 33 was guest Rouge et Or's (#4) road victory over Gaiters (#5) 87-76 on Friday evening. The game was mostly controlled by Rouge et Or. Gaiters managed to win second period 24-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. 24 personal fouls committed by Gaiters helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was naturalized Bosnian forward Boris Hadzimuratovic (204-91, college: High School) who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 15 rebounds. Swingman Etienne Labrecque (196-86, college: Quinnipiac) chipped in 22 points. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Jeremy Leonard-Smith (193) who recorded 20 points and guard Sean Monplaisir (188) added 17 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists respectively. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Rouge et Or maintains fourth place with 5-11 record. Gaiters at the other side keep the fifth position with 12 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:Bishop's: J.Leonard-Smith 20+4reb+3ast, S.Monplaisir 17+5reb+4ast, M.Post 17+2reb+3ast, M.Andrews 8+15reb, O.Blackwood 6+3reb, T.Hunter 5+5reb+8astLaval: E.Labrecque 22+3reb+2ast, B.Hadzimuratovic 15+15reb+1ast, X.Baribeau 14+1reb+9ast, A.Guilard 9+2reb+2ast, H.Ryan 9+10reb, T.Dezutter 6+5reb+3ast

Rather predictable result in Montreal, QC where first ranked Stingers (14-2) beat 3rd placed Citadines (7-9) 80-62 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by Stingers. Citadines was better in second period 28-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Stingers dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to Citadines' 28. They outrebounded Citadines 40-25 including a 31-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was international point guard Kyle Desmarais (188-87, college: Cent.Conn.St.) who scored 15 points and 5 assists. Jerome Blake chipped in 14 points. Five Stingers players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was guard Richard Kwaku Addai (183-88) who recorded 26 points and 5 rebounds (perfect behind the arc making all five shots) and guard Eric Cote-Kougnima (193-88) added 6 points respectively. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Stingers have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 14-2 record. Loser Citadines keep the third position with nine games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:UQAM: R.Kwaku Addai 26+5reb, E.Cote-Kougnima 6+2reb+3ast, V.Lanctot-Fortier 5, A.Bernard 5+4reb, A.Pivotar 5, M.Bazile 5+2reb+1astConcordia: K.Desmarais 15+3reb+5ast, J.Blake 14+2reb+1ast, M.Tajfel 11+2reb+1ast, E.Laroche 10+4reb+1ast, J.Clark 10+5reb, D.Krah 10+4reb

Important game to mention about took place in Halifax, NS. Sixth ranked Tigers (9-11) saved a 3-point victory at home edging 7th ranked Varsity Reds (7-13) 78-75 in the game for the fifth place. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 21-9. But Varsity Reds won second period 23-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Tigers won last quarter 20-18. They also forced 21 Varsity Reds turnovers. Varsity Reds were plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for Cameroonian forward William Yengue (193) who led his team to a victory with 23 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Casey Fox (193) contributed with 21 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Michael Fosu answered with 14 points and 7 rebounds and guard Daniel Quirion (183) added 13 points and 8 assists in the effort for Varsity Reds. Four Varsity Reds players scored in double figures. Varsity Reds' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Tigers moved-up to fifth place, which they share with St.Mary's. Varsity Reds at the other side dropped to the sixth position with 13 games lost. They share it with Brandon. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:New Brunsw.: W.McFee 17+3reb+1ast, M.Fosu 14+7reb+3ast, D.Quirion 13+3reb+8ast, A.Desroches 10+6reb+3ast, R.Linton 9, M.Daley 7+4reb+3astDalhousie: W.Yengue 23+8reb+1ast, C.Fox 21+5reb+2ast, S.Lopez 17+3reb+2ast, R.Nortmann 8+3reb, R.Kanza Mata 7+7reb+8ast, S.Williams 2+2reb

Not a big story in a game in Halifax, NS where 5th ranked Huskies (9-11) were defeated by second ranked Axemen (14-6) 73-65 on Wednesday. The guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 73-65. Axemen made 18-of-22 free shots (81.8 percent) during the game. They also forced 26 Huskies turnovers. The best player for the winners was international forward Owen Klassen (208-91) who had a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds. Guard Thomas Filgiano (187) chipped in 11 points and 6 rebounds. Four Axemen players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was Brian Rouse who recorded 18 points and 8 rebounds and forward Riley Halpin (203) added 15 points respectively. Axemen have an impressive series of five victories in a row. They maintain second place with 14-6 record having just two points less than leader Lakehead, which they share with Alberta. Loser Huskies keep the fifth position with 11 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:St.Mary's: B.Rouse 18+8reb, R.Halpin 15+3reb+2ast, T.Fassett 9+9reb+1ast, J.Smith 8+5reb+5ast, H.Ezenibe 7+6reb+1ast, M.Pink 4+3rebAcadia: O.Klassen 18+13reb, T.Scott 12+4reb, T.Filgiano 11+6reb+3ast, J.Tull 10+3reb+1ast, S.Stoqua 9+1reb+1ast, A.Ashe 7+6reb+1ast

Everything went according to plan in Montreal, QC where second ranked Redmen (10-6) won against 5th ranked Gaiters (4-12) 67-58 on Thursday. The hosts trailed by 8 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 9 points. The best player for the winners was swingman Nicolas Langley (197-92) who scored 22 points. Guard Karim Sy-Morissette (193) chipped in 12 points and 6 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was guard Onnex Blackwood (188) who recorded 14 points and 5 rebounds and guard Sean Monplaisir (188) added 6 points and 6 rebounds respectively. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Redmen maintains second place with 10-6 record having ten points less than leader Lakehead. Loser Gaiters keep the fifth position with 12 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:Bishop's: O.Blackwood 14+5reb, M.Andrews 8+5reb+1ast, R.Aristil 7+2reb+1ast, S.Monplaisir 6+6reb+2ast, M.McLean 5+2reb, T.Hunter 5+2astMcGill: N.Langley 22+3reb, K.Sy-Morissette 12+4reb+6ast, V.Dufort 10+3reb+1ast, T.Riley 9+5reb, A.Mitrovic 7+7reb+1ast, W.Clark 4+3reb

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams in Halifax, NS where 6th ranked Tigers (9-11) were defeated by seventh ranked Varsity Reds (7-13) 68-57 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by Varsity Reds. Tigers was better in second period 13-9. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Varsity Reds forced 21 Tigers turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. The best player for the winners was guard Alex Desroches (193) who scored 16 points and 7 rebounds. Michael Fosu chipped in 14 points and 8 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Alexander Arthur (196) who recorded 13 points and 7 rebounds and guard Casey Fox (193) added 11 points and 6 rebounds respectively. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games. Varsity Reds moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Brandon. Loser Tigers dropped to the fifth position with 11 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest. Top scorers:Dalhousie: A.Arthur 13+7reb+2ast, C.Fox 11+6reb+1ast, R.Nortmann 9+4reb, W.Yengue 6+10reb+1ast, N.Smith 6, R.Kanza Mata 5+6reb+5astNew Brunsw.: A.Desroches 16+7reb+3ast, M.Fosu 14+8reb+1ast, D.Quirion 9+3reb+5ast, W.McFee 8+4ast, D.Anthony 6+3reb+3ast, A.O'Brien 4+1reb

The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But DongGuan Leopards won third quarter 26-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Xinjiang Flying Tige made 34-of-39 charity shots (87.2 percent) during the game. DongGuan Leopards were plagued by 32 personal fouls down the stretch. It was an exceptional evening for American-Nigerian power forward Ike Diogu (203-83, college: Arizona St.) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 42 points (!!!) and 12 rebounds. International guard Tal Co (191-91) accounted for 24 points and 5 assists (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line) for the winning side. Nigerian-American guard Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-86, college: CS Fullerton) came up with 42 points (!!!) and 4 assists (went 13 for 13 at the free throw line !!!) and American forward Shavlik Randolph (208-83, college: Duke) added 21 points and 12 rebounds respectively for DongGuan Leopards in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Top scorers:Xinjiang F.T.: D.Ike 42+12reb+1ast, C.Tal 24+2reb+5ast, M.Bateer 15+10reb+3ast, M.Lati 11+5reb+1ast, S.WeiBo 10+1reb+1ast, T.ZhengDong 10+3rebDongGuan L.: A.Josh-Emmanuel 42+3reb+4ast, H.Chih-Shan 22+4ast, R.Shavlik 21+12reb, Z.Kai 14+11reb+3ast, G.QuAn 5+1reb, Q.Biao 3+3ast

The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 72-39 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Guandong Tigers made 20-of-25 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. They also forced 21 Fujian SBS XunXin turnovers and outrebounded them 52-32 including a 35-24 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was American point guard Aaron Brooks (183-85, college: Oregon) who scored 31 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. His fellow American import forward James Singleton (203-81, college: Murray St.) chipped in a double-double by scoring 21 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Guandong Tigers' coach ChunJiang Li felt very confident that he used 11 players and allowed the starting five to rest. At the other side the best for losing team was power forward Lei Guo (201-83) who recorded 25 points and 8 rebounds (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field) and forward Qixin Zhou (195-85) added 20 points respectively. Five Guandong Tigers and four Fujian SBS XunXin players scored in double figures. Top scorers:Guandong ST: B.Aaron 31+7reb+7ast, Z.FangYu 25+8reb+2ast, S.James 21+14reb+4ast, H.Dong 19+6reb+1ast, W.ShiPeng 16+6reb+2ast, L.XiaoYu 9+3astFujian XX: G.Lei 25+8reb+2ast, Z.Qixin 20+4reb+3ast, G.SongLin 16+7ast, L.Yi Ting 13+1reb+1ast, M.Will 13+8reb+3ast, L.Hang 8+2reb

The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 61-45 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Beijing Ducks made 19-of-21 free shots (90.5 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was American power forward Randolph Morris (211-86, college: Kentucky) who had a double-double by scoring 31 points and 11 rebounds. His fellow American import guard Stephon Marbury (188-77, college: Georgia Tech) chipped in 24 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). At the other side the best for losing team was American power forward Rodney White (206-80, college: Charlotte) who recorded 30 points and Taiwanese guard Chih-Chieh Lin (192-82) added 15 points and 4 assists respectively. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions' coach rotated ten players saving starting five for next games. Top scorers:Beijing Ducks: M.Randolph 31+11reb+3ast, M.Stephon 24+5reb+4ast, Z.Xiaochuan 16+10reb+2ast, C.Lei 13+5reb+3ast, Z.YanXi 8+4reb+1ast, L.Hsueh-Lin 6+4reb+4astGuangsha L.: W.Rodney 30+4reb+2ast, L.Chih-Chieh 15+3reb+4ast, W.Bo 11+9reb+1ast, S.Ho man 10+3reb+2ast, R.Peter John 8+4reb+1ast, Z.Wei 7+6reb+1ast

The guests trailed by 6 points after three quarters before their 24-16 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Shanghai Sharks made 23-of-30 free shots (76.7 percent) during the game. It was a great evening for American forward Mike Harris (198-83, college: Rice) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 12 rebounds. International point guard Wei Liu (190-80) helped adding 23 points and 6 rebounds. The best for the losing side was forward JiangPeng Duan (197-90) with 36 points (!!!) and American forward Charles Gaines (201-81, college: S.Mississippi) produced a double-double by scoring 20 points and 17 rebounds (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). Five Shanghai Sharks and four Shanxi Zhongyu players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Top scorers:Shanghai S.: L.Marcus 24+3reb+1ast, L.Wei 23+6reb+3ast, H.Mike 22+12reb+2ast, Z.ZhaoXu 12+4reb, W.Yong-Liang 11+6reb+1ast, F.Tian 4Shanxi Zh.: D.JiangPeng 36+3reb, G.Charles 20+17reb+1ast, W.Marcus 15+2reb+1ast, L.XiaoMing 11+6reb+13ast, M.Kan 7+3reb+2ast, B.ZhaoBao 5+6reb

gschID: 169811

Guangdong and Beijing Win First-Round Playoff Series - by Arthur VolbertGuangdong and Beijing won their first-round playoff series 3-0, while Shanxi and Xinjiang hold 2-1 leads in theirs.

A1 Round 18: Zadar loses a game and the top position to Jolly - by Eurobasket NewsThe games are now more important than at the beginning of the Regular Season. We may still expect few shocking results in upcoming 4 rounds. There was no lack of excitement in the last round games. The round ended with defeat of the leader, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of Zadar (12-4) in Sibenik on Friday night. Visitors were edged by Jolly (12-4) 75-73. It ended at the same time the eight-game winning streak of Zadar. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 11-4 record before this meeting. The hosts trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 27-18 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Jolly dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Zadar's 34. American guard Ronald Ross (188-83, college: Texas Tech) had a double-double by scoring 35 points (!!!), 10 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals to lead the charge for the winners and forward Ivo Josipovic (205-75, agency: Court Side) chipped in 19 points during the contest. The best for the losing side was center Ive Ivanov (201-85) with 14 points and 9 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Jolly have an impressive nine-game winning streak. They used an opportunity after Zadar lost their game and moved up joining them at the top position which they share with defeated Zadar. Jolly is looking forward to face Zabok (#4) in Zabok in the next round. Zadar will play at home against KK Split and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Important game to mention about took place in Rijeka. Sixth ranked Kvarner 2010 (8-9) saved a 1-point victory at home edging 7th ranked Alkar Sinj (6-10) 79-78 on Saturday evening. Bosnian center Teo Simovic (205-84, agency: Interperformances) notched 20 points and 9 rebounds to lead the effort and Matija Ceskovic supported him with 23 points and 5 rebounds. Even 13 points and 8 rebounds by center Jure Lozancic (211-83, college: Jacksonville) did not help to save the game for Alkar Sinj. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Kvarner 2010 maintains sixth position with 8-9 record. Alkar Sinj at the other side dropped to the ninth place with ten games lost. Kvarner 2010 will play against Vrijednosnice OS (#7) in Darda in the next round. Alkar Sinj will play at home against Borik Puntamika in Zadar and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Svjetlost (#5) was upset in Zadar by eighth ranked Borik Puntamika75-70. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Svjetlost. The best player for the winners was Luka Drezga who scored 24 points. At the other side the best for losing team was Ljubo Samadan who recorded a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds. Borik Puntamika maintains eighth position with 7-10 record. Loser Svjetlost keeps the fifth place with eight games lost. Borik Puntamika will meet Alkar Sinj (#9) on the road in the next round. Svjetlost will play against Krizevci (#10) and hope to secure a win. Ninth-ranked Krizevci (6-11) gave a tough game to fourth ranked Zabok (10-6). Zabok managed to secure only three-point victory 74-71. However their fans expected much easier game. It was a good game for Filip Kruslin who led his team to a victory with 21 points. Both coaches allowed to play bench players in such tough game. Zabok maintains fourth position with 10-6 record. Newly promoted Krizevci dropped to the tenth place with 11 games lost. Zabok's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Jolly in Sibenik and it may be the game of the week. Krizevci will play on the road against Svjetlost (#5) in Slavonski Brod. 11th ranked Dubrovnik (3-14) was defeated at home by eighth ranked Vrijednosnice OS (7-9) with the biggest margin this round 83-74 on Saturday night. Rudolf Jugo scored 18 points to lead the charge for the winners. Vrijednosnice OS moved-up to seventh place. Dubrovnik lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost. Vrijednosnice OS will face higher ranked Kvarner 2010 (#6) in Rijeka in the next round and it may be quite challenging game.

11th ranked Dubrovnik (3-14) was defeated at home by eighth ranked Vrijednosnice OS (7-9) with the biggest margin this round 83-74 on Saturday night. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Dubrovnik won third quarter 25-23. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Vrijednosnice OS made 22-of-26 free shots (84.6 percent) during the game. Dubrovnik was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. Point guard Rudolf Jugo (183-84) scored 18 points to lead the charge for the winners and Bosnian center Mato Peraica (203-81) chipped in 11 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. Four Vrijednosnice OS players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was forward Roko Ciklic (196-83) with 18 points and 6 rebounds and center Maro Lucic (202-80) scored 14 points and 6 rebounds. Vrijednosnice OS moved-up to seventh place. Dubrovnik lost third consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost. Vrijednosnice OS will face higher ranked Kvarner 2010 (#6) in Rijeka in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Top scorers:Dubrovnik: R.Ciklic 18+6reb+1ast, M.Lucic 14+6reb+2ast, D.Hajdic 11+2reb+2ast, M.Peric 8+3ast, F.Karac 8+4reb, M.Hajdic 6+3reb+2astDarda: R.Jugo 18+3reb+3ast, D.Meznaric 15+5reb+2ast, V.Budimir 11+3reb, M.Peraica 11+9reb+2ast, L.Panduric 8+1reb, A.Bicvic 7+2reb+1ast

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of Zadar (12-4) in Sibenik on Friday night. Visitors were edged by Jolly (12-4) 75-73. It ended at the same time the eight-game winning streak of Zadar. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 11-4 record before this meeting. The hosts trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 27-18 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Jolly dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Zadar's 34. American guard Ronald Ross (188-83, college: Texas Tech) had a double-double by scoring 35 points (!!!), 10 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals to lead the charge for the winners and forward Ivo Josipovic (205-75, agency: Court Side) chipped in 19 points during the contest. The best for the losing side was center Ive Ivanov (201-85) with 14 points and 9 rebounds and guard Karlo Vragovic (192-89) scored 17 points and 4 assists (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Jolly have an impressive nine-game winning streak. They used an opportunity after Zadar lost their game and moved up joining them at the top position which they share with defeated Zadar. Jolly is looking forward to face Zabok (#4) in Zabok in the next round. Zadar will play at home against KK Split and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Zadar: K.Vragovic 17+3reb+4ast, I.Ivanov 14+9reb+1ast, G.Vrbanc 11+1reb+1ast, A.Delas 9+4reb, U.Zadnik 6+1reb+4ast, A.Krapic 5+4reb+2astJolly: R.Ross 35+10reb+6ast, I.Josipovic 19+2reb+1ast, M.Mrva 7+4reb+1ast, H.Puljko 4+1reb, T.Gabric 3+1reb+1ast, T.Grubisic 3

Ninth-ranked Krizevci (6-11) gave a tough game to fourth ranked Zabok (10-6). Zabok managed to secure only three-point victory 74-71. However their fans expected much easier game. Krizevci was ahead by 2 points after three quarters before a 25-20 charge of Zabok, which allowed them to win the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Krizevci helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for guard Filip Kruslin (198-89, agency: Interperformances) who led his team to a victory with 21 points. The former international guard Ivan Tomas (193-81) contributed with 12 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Center Ivan Buva (208-91) replied with 10 points and 8 rebounds and the former international power forward Ivan Grgat (210-74, agency: Court Side) added 11 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Krizevci. Four Krizevci players scored in double figures. Both coaches allowed to play bench players in such tough game. Zabok maintains fourth position with 10-6 record. Newly promoted Krizevci dropped to the tenth place with 11 games lost. Zabok's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Jolly in Sibenik and it may be the game of the week. Krizevci will play on the road against Svjetlost (#5) in Slavonski Brod. Top scorers:Krizevci: F.Gacesa 14+1reb+2ast, I.Grgat 11+5reb+2ast, I.Buva 10+8reb+1ast, M.Gligora 10+3reb, L.Zitko 9+7reb+1ast, I.Mikulic 8+2reb+2astZabok: F.Kruslin 21+3reb+1ast, I.Tomas 12+6reb, R.Lez 9+3reb+1ast, D.Bubalo 8+6reb, S.Jankovic 6+4reb, S.Zadravec 5+4ast

Svjetlost (#5) was upset in Zadar by eighth ranked Borik Puntamika75-70. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Svjetlost. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 75-70. The best player for the winners was guard Luka Drezga (196-87) who scored 24 points. Power forward Marino Sarlija (207-89) chipped in 16 points and 7 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international power forward Ljubo Samadan (208-83) who recorded a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds and power forward Andrej Stimac (204-79) added 15 points and 11 rebounds (went 9 for 9 at the free throw line !!!) respectively. Five Svjetlost players scored in double figures. Borik Puntamika maintains eighth position with 7-10 record. Loser Svjetlost keeps the fifth place with eight games lost. Borik Puntamika will meet Alkar Sinj (#9) on the road in the next round. Svjetlost will play against Krizevci (#10) and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Svjetlost: L.Samadan 18+10reb+2ast, A.Stimac 15+11reb, M.Batina 14+2reb+1ast, T.Kostomaj 13+1reb+4ast, M.Kljaic 10, M.Karlovic 0Borik: L.Drezga 24+1reb, M.Sarlija 16+7reb, P.Maric 10+2reb+3ast, T.Drazovic 8+1reb+1ast, M.Pesut 6+2reb+2ast, M.Grabovac 5+4reb

Important game to mention about took place in Rijeka. Sixth ranked Kvarner 2010 (8-9) saved a 1-point victory at home edging 7th ranked Alkar Sinj (6-10) 79-78 on Saturday evening. Alkar Sinj cut a 16-point first quarter deficit to one at the end of the game. Alkar Sinj was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. Bosnian center Teo Simovic (205-84, agency: Interperformances) notched 20 points and 9 rebounds to lead the effort and naturalized Bosnian guard Matija Ceskovic (192-81, agency: Court Side) supported him with 23 points and 5 rebounds. Even 13 points and 8 rebounds by center Jure Lozancic (211-83, college: Jacksonville) did not help to save the game for Alkar Sinj. Swingman Franjo Bubalo (194-88) added 19 points. Four Alkar Sinj players scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Kvarner 2010 maintains sixth position with 8-9 record. Alkar Sinj at the other side dropped to the ninth place with ten games lost. Kvarner 2010 will play against Vrijednosnice OS (#7) in Darda in the next round. Alkar Sinj will play at home against Borik Puntamika in Zadar and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Alkar Sinj: F.Bubalo 19+1reb+3ast, N.Gaurina 14+4reb+2ast, J.Lozancic 13+8reb+3ast, Z.Zupic 10+10reb+1ast, D.Kanaet 7+4reb, M.Modric 6+3rebKvarner 2010: M.Ceskovic 23+5reb+3ast, T.Simovic 20+9reb+2ast, J.Blajic 14+4reb+3ast, Z.Pehar 7+5reb+1ast, D.Cinac 7+3reb, J.Surina 5+1reb

NBL Round 2 of Second Stage - by Eurobasket NewsUSK Praha (#6) forced the game against BC Kolin (#5) into an overtime, but lost by six points 96-102 on Saturday night. The game took place in Praha. But the guests from Kolin were better at the end. The best player for the winners was Rashaan Ames who scored 24 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. USK Praha's coach Ken Scalabroni rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. BC Kolin maintains fifth position in A1 with 18-20 record. USK Praha at the other side keeps the sixth place with 13 games lost. BC Kolin will face higher ranked BK Pardubice (#4) at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. USK Praha will play against the league's second-placed BK Prostejov.

Rest of the games of round 2 were very predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are: In A1 BK Prostejov was defeated by CEZ Nymburk in a road game 88-82. BK Pardubice was beaten by BK Decin at home 54-58. In A2 Svitavy won against Usti n/Labem on the opponent's court 88-77. Chomutov managed to outperform Inter Bratislava in a home game 88-77. B&W Opava managed to beat Plzen on the road 74-66. NH Ostrava defeated Levice on its own court 80-62. Levice was beaten by Svitavy in Svitavy 74-69. B&W Opava was destroyed by NH Ostrava at home 65-91. Plzen was outscored by Inter Bratislava on the opponent's court 82-59. Usti n/Labem rolled over Chomutov in a home game 119-86. The best stats of 2nd round was 38 points (!!!), 7 rebounds and 5 assists by Vojtech Hruban of USK Praha.

Group A1

The game between closely ranked teams ended with second-ranked BK Prostejov's (21-7) road loss to first ranked CEZ Nymburk (27-1) 82-88 on Friday. BK Prostejov trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 28-23 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 82-88 at the end of the game. Strangely BK Prostejov outrebounded CEZ Nymburk 39-24 including 16 on the offensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. The best player for the winners was the former international power forward Petr Benda (203-82, agency: Court Side) who scored 21 points. American guard Eugene Lawrence (184-86, college: St.John's) chipped in 15 points and 6 assists. CEZ Nymburk's coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Slovenian point guard Matej Venta (187-84) produced 17 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists and American center Bertengeh Gadri-Nicholson (208-83, college: Denver) added 14 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for the guests. Four CEZ Nymburk and five BK Prostejov players scored in double figures. Defending champion maintains first position in A1 with 27-1 record. BK Prostejov at the other side keeps the second place with seven games lost. CEZ Nymburk will face BK Decin (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. BK Prostejov will play against USK Praha. Top scorers:CEZ Nymburk: P.Benda 21+2reb+1ast, L.Wilson 16+3reb+2ast, E.Lawrence 15+2reb+6ast, L.Sokolovsky 12+5reb+3ast, M.Lenzly 10+1reb, M.Kremen 7+3reb+4astBK Prostejov: M.Venta 17+6reb+6ast, D.Pandula 16+3reb+1ast, B.Gadri-Nicholson 14+10reb+4ast, T.Peterson 11+10reb, J.Bohacik 10+3reb+1ast, V.Bratcenkov 6+1reb+1ast

USK Praha (#6) forced the game against BC Kolin (#5) into an overtime, but lost by six points 96-102 on Saturday night. The game took place in Praha. But the guests from Kolin were better at the end. The guests trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 167-160 charge in the second half, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 12-96. The best player for the winners was American point guard Rashaan Ames (184-78, college: Shaw) who scored 24 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. Forward David Machac (204-80) chipped in 20 points and 9 rebounds. Five BC Kolin players scored in double figures. The former international forward Vojtech Hruban (202-89) produced 38 points (!!!), 7 rebounds and 5 assists (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!) and Slovakian center Peter Sedmak (207-85) added 23 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the hosts. USK Praha's coach Ken Scalabroni rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. BC Kolin maintains fifth position in A1 with 18-20 record. USK Praha at the other side keeps the sixth place with 13 games lost. BC Kolin will face higher ranked BK Pardubice (#4) at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. USK Praha will play against the league's second-placed BK Prostejov. Top scorers:BC Kolin: R.Ames 24+7reb+7ast, D.Machac 20+9reb+1ast, R.Field 17+7reb+2ast, C.Barnes 15+2reb+5ast, R.Marko 13+3reb+2ast, S.Zuzak 11+4rebUSK Praha: V.Hruban 38+7reb+5ast, P.Sedmak 23+7reb+3ast, S.Votroubek 16+6reb+1ast, M.Vocetka 9, J.Slavik 6+2reb, M.Soukup 2+3reb

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both fourth ranked BK Decin and one of their biggest challengers BK Pardubice had identical 20-7 record. But BK Pardubice was not able to use a home court advantage and lost to the opponent from Decin 58-54 on Saturday night. It was a key game for the second position in A1. The guests trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 14-7 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. BK Decin dominated on the defensive end, holding BK Pardubice to just 7 points in third quarter. The best player for the winners was swingman Lubos Stria (197-81) who scored 13 points and 8 rebounds. International power forward Pavel Houska (204-84) chipped in 13 points and 5 rebounds. The former international power forward Zbynek Pospisil (205-81) produced 12 points and 7 rebounds and Canadian-Jamaican forward Corey Muirhead (198-83, college: W.Carolina) added 13 points respectively for the hosts. BK Decin (21-7) moved-up to second place in A1, which they share with BK Prostejov. Loser BK Pardubice dropped to the fourth position with eight games lost. BK Decin will face league's leader CEZ Nymburk at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. BK Pardubice will play against BC Kolin and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:BK Decin: P.Houska 13+5reb+1ast, L.Stria 13+8reb+3ast, A.Alic 9+2reb+1ast, L.Sanders 8+3reb+2ast, D.Burke 7+8reb+2ast, J.Houska 6+1rebBK Pardubice: C.Muirhead 13+3reb, Z.Pospisil 12+7reb, M.Arnold 10+4reb, M.Hampton 7+3reb+4ast, M.Carnecky 6+1reb+1ast, P.Bohacik 3+4reb

gschID: 168580

Group A2

Rather expected game when 6th ranked BK Usti nad Labem (9-21) was defeated at home by fourth ranked Basketbal Svitavy (12-18) 88-77 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Basketbal Svitavy. BK Usti nad Labem was better in second period 20-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Strangely BK Usti nad Labem outrebounded Basketbal Svitavy 38-24 including 19 on the offensive glass. The best player for the winners was Congolese-French forward Boris Meno (203-83, college: Davidson) who scored 19 points and 7 rebounds. American point guard Michael Deloach (183-86, college: Norfolk St.) chipped in 15 points and 6 assists. Five Basketbal Svitavy players scored in double figures. American guard Thaddeus McFadden (188-87, college: Fairmont St., agency: Stanley International) produced 23 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists and center Tomas Hruby (206-78) added 13 points and 8 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Basketbal Svitavy moved-up to second place in A2, which they share with Levice. Newly promoted BK Usti nad Labem dropped to the fifth position with 21 games lost. Basketbal Svitavy will face B&W Opava (#8) at home in the next round where they are favorite. BK Usti nad Labem will play against the league's leader NH Ostrava. Top scorers:Svitavy: B.Meno 19+7reb+1ast, M.Deloach 15+4reb+6ast, L.Horak 15+6reb, P.Milos 12+2reb, P.Mroz 10+4reb+1ast, L.Moravec 5+4astUsti n/Labem: T.McFadden 23+5reb+6ast, T.Hruby 13+8reb+1ast, B.Reese 11+6reb, J.Holanda 9+4reb+5ast, T.Gottselig 9+8reb+2ast, J.Fohler 6+3reb

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 7th ranked BK Loko Plzen (7-23) was defeated at home by eighth ranked B&W Opava (6-24) 74-66 on Wednesday. The best player for the winners was international guard Jakub Sirina (185-87) who scored 22 points and 6 rebounds. Forward Martin Vanak (200-87) chipped in 14 points and 8 rebounds. Four B&W Opava players scored in double figures. Forward Ladislav Toth (196-83) produced 18 points and forward Ladislav Pecka (197-91) added 18 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the hosts. B&W Opava maintains eighth position in A2 with 6-24 record. BK Loko Plzen lost third consecutive game. They keep the seventh place with 23 games lost. B&W Opava will face higher ranked Basketbal Svitavy (#3) on the road in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Top scorers:B&W Opava: J.Sirina 22+6reb+3ast, M.Vanak 14+8reb+2ast, J.Blazek 13+7reb+2ast, P.Dokoupil 12+2reb+1ast, Z.Gudelj 7+5reb+4ast, M.Kolovrat 6+3rebPlzen: L.Pecka 18+5reb+1ast, L.Toth 18+4reb+2ast, S.Vrubl 10+4reb+5ast, M.Norwa 7+8reb+3ast, F.Smid 5+4reb, J.Kovanda 4+4reb+1ast

The game between closely ranked teams ended with first ranked NH Ostrava's (16-14) home victory over second-ranked Levice (12-18) 80-62 on Wednesday. NH Ostrava made 17-of-19 free shots (89.5 percent) during the game. NH Ostrava outrebounded Levice 42-27 including 30 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was power forward Martin Gniadek (202-90) who had a double-double by scoring 24 points and 10 rebounds. American swingman Riley Luettgerodt (196-85, college: Hawaii, agency: I.D.S. Law) chipped in a double-double by scoring 22 points and 11 rebounds (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). Luettgerodt is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four NH Ostrava players scored in double figures. American guard Keaton Grant (193-86, college: Purdue) produced 15 points and 6 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Dior Lowhorn (201-87, college: USF) added 14 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the guests. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. NH Ostrava have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain first position in A2 with 16-14 record. Loser Levice keeps the second place with 18 games lost. NH Ostrava will face BK Usti nad Labem (#6) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Levice will play against Inter Bratislava (#5). Top scorers:NH Ostrava: M.Gniadek 24+10reb+1ast, R.Luettgerodt 22+11reb+1ast, J.Hughes 16+4reb+1ast, D.Wright 10+4reb+8ast, L.Jurecka 3+6reb+4ast, A.Ciz 3+4rebLevice: K.Grant 15+6reb, D.Lowhorn 14+6reb, J.Vojtek 11+1ast, E.Sanchez 6+2reb+2ast, M.Sykora 5+4reb, S.Modric 4+2reb+1ast

There was a minor upset when second-ranked Levice (12-18) was defeated on the road by fourth ranked Basketbal Svitavy (12-18) 74-69 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 8 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 5 points. The best player for the winners was American point guard Michael Deloach (183-86, college: Norfolk St.) who scored 16 points and 8 rebounds. Guard Lubos Moravec (185-89) chipped in 13 points and 4 assists. Four Basketbal Svitavy players scored in double figures. American guard Keaton Grant (193-86, college: Purdue) produced 21 points and his fellow American import forward Dior Lowhorn (201-87, college: USF) added 11 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the guests. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Basketbal Svitavy moved-up to second place in A2, which they share with defeated Levice. Basketbal Svitavy will face B&W Opava (#8) at home in the next round where they are favorite. Levice will play against Inter Bratislava (#5). Top scorers:Svitavy: M.Deloach 16+8reb+2ast, L.Horak 14+5reb, L.Moravec 13+3reb+4ast, P.Mroz 13+6reb, B.Meno 9+10reb+1ast, T.Teply 5+2rebLevice: K.Grant 21+4reb, E.Sanchez 12+2reb, J.Vojtek 11+1reb, D.Lowhorn 11+5reb, P.Seman 6+1reb, M.Sykora 4+8reb+1ast

No shocking result in a game when first ranked NH Ostrava (16-14) smashed on the road 8th ranked B&W Opava (6-24) 91-65 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by NH Ostrava. B&W Opava was better in second period 23-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 23-of-26 free shots (88.5 percent) during the game. NH Ostrava outrebounded B&W Opava 49-31 including 20 on the offensive glass. The best player for the winners was American center James Hughes (211-83, college: N.Illinois, agency: I.D.S. Law) who had a double-double by scoring 22 points and 11 rebounds (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). point guard Adam Ciz (190-91) chipped in 13 points and 5 assists. Five NH Ostrava players scored in double figures. International guard Jakub Sirina (185-87) produced 13 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists and forward Jakub Blazek (203-80) added 17 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the hosts. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. NH Ostrava have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain first position in A2 with 16-14 record. Loser B&W Opava keeps the eighth place with 24 games lost. NH Ostrava will face BK Usti nad Labem (#6) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. B&W Opava will play against Basketbal Svitavy. Top scorers:NH Ostrava: J.Hughes 22+11reb, L.Jurecka 15+6reb+1ast, A.Ciz 13+4reb+5ast, S.Manousos 13+8reb, R.Luettgerodt 12+9reb+1ast, J.Aleksejevs 7+4reb+1astB&W Opava: J.Blazek 17+5reb, J.Sirina 13+5reb+7ast, Z.Gudelj 10+9reb, M.Kolovrat 7+5reb, P.Dokoupil 5, M.Galata 3+2reb

Rather expected game when 7th ranked BK Loko Plzen (7-23) was rolled over on the road by fifth ranked Inter Bratislava (9-21) 82-59 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by Inter Bratislava. BK Loko Plzen was better in third quarter 17-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Inter Bratislava looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. The best player for the winners was Irish-Serbian power forward Mihajlo Pesic (206-81, agency: Court Side) who had a double-double by scoring 11 points and 18 rebounds. Slovakian forward Andrej Kuffa (203-90) chipped in 18 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Inter Bratislava players scored in double figures. Forward Ladislav Toth (196-83) produced 12 points and 6 rebounds and forward Ladislav Pecka (197-91) added 12 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the guests. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Inter Bratislava maintains fifth position in A2 with 9-21 record, which they share with Usti n/Labem. BK Loko Plzen lost third consecutive game. They keep the seventh place with 23 games lost. Inter Bratislava will face league's second-placed Levice at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. BK Loko Plzen will play against Levharti Chomutov (#4). Top scorers:Inter Bratislava: A.Kuffa 18+6reb+4ast, S.Gavran 16+5reb+1ast, M.Pesic 11+18reb, M.Trivunovic 11+4reb+2ast, M.Zilik 8+1reb, E.Ubilla 8+3reb+11astPlzen: L.Pecka 12+6reb+1ast, L.Toth 12+6reb+2ast, V.Honomichl 10+2ast, M.Kozlik 9+4reb+1ast, T.Kubiznak 5+1reb, J.Suchy 3

There was a small surprise when sixth ranked BK Usti nad Labem (9-21) outscored at home one of their biggest challengers Levharti Chomutov (11-19) 119-86 on Sunday. The hosts trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 119-86. BK Usti nad Labem shot 60.6 percent from the field and made 20-of-25 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. BK Usti nad Labem outrebounded Levharti Chomutov 40-28 including 26 on the defensive glass. They shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 61.9 percentage. Levharti Chomutov was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was Canadian forward Troy Gottselig (203-87) who scored 28 points and 9 rebounds (on 14-of-18 shooting from the field). American guard Thaddeus McFadden (188-87, college: Fairmont St., agency: Stanley International) chipped in 22 points and 8 assists. Five BK Usti nad Labem players scored in double figures. American guard Patrick Pope (183-81, college: St.Augustine) produced 36 points (!!!), 6 rebounds and 9 assists and forward Jakub Krakovic (205-90) added 20 points respectively for the guests. Levharti Chomutov's coach gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. BK Usti nad Labem moved-up to fifth place in A2, which they share with Inter Bratislava. Levharti Chomutov at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the fourth position with 19 games lost. BK Usti nad Labem will face league's leader NH Ostrava at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Levharti Chomutov will play against BK Loko Plzen. Top scorers:Usti n/Labem: T.Gottselig 28+9reb, T.McFadden 22+4reb+8ast, T.Hruby 18+10reb+1ast, J.Holanda 16+1reb+6ast, B.Reese 14+6reb, S.Reinberger 11+1rebChomutov: P.Pope 36+6reb+9ast, J.Krakovic 20+3reb+1ast, R.Lowery 13+3reb+1ast, Z.Hanzlik 6+2reb+2ast, V.Sucharda 4+6reb, J.Stepanek 4

Peter Johansen gets 4000! - by Thomas SoltauPeter Johansen (205-F/C-80) the starting forward/center for Team FOG Naestved reached a milestone in his long career in the best league in Denmark.

For many years this big-man has ruled our Danish courts, and last game he put in the basket that gave him point number 4000!

Johansen told reporters in a local TV-interview that all he is missing now is a title.

Rumors say the big-man could be thinking about calling it quits soon, but hopefully Johansen will continue to tie his basketball shoes for a couple more years and get his trophy.

Ligaen Round 26: Leader Bakken loses to Svendborg - by Eurobasket NewsThere will be only one (last) round of the Regular Season in Ligaen.

Top ranked Bakken (23-2) recorded its second loss in Aarhus on Thursday night. Hosts were defeated by second ranked Svendborg (23-3) 81-70. It ended at the same time the 19-game winning streak of Bakken. It may be a crucial game in the contest for the top position in the league. The guests trailed by 5 points after three quarters before their 27-11 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Svendborg dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to Bakken's 28. The best player for the winners was the former international guard Adama Darboe (190-86) who scored 23 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. International guard Mikkel Plannthin (195-88) chipped in 17 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. American guard Joshua Alexander (193-87, college: SF Austin) produced 23 points and 6 rebounds for the hosts. Bakken's coach Philip Dejworek rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Svendborg maintains second position with 23-3 record having just -1 point less than leader Bakken. Defending champion Bakken still keeps top place with two games lost. Svendborg are looking forward to face Aalborg (#8) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Bakken will play against SISU (#4) in Copenhagen and is hoping to win this game. The game in Horsens was also worth to mention about. One of their biggest challengers SISU (12-14) played at the court of fifth ranked Horsens IC (11-15). Horsens IC defeated SISU 94-81. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of SISU. American forward Will Harris (198-86, college: Albany) orchestrated the victory by scoring 34 points (!!!) and 4 assists. Davor Sattler contributed with 14 points and 7 assists for the winners. American swingman Mickey Dennis (190-78, college: JMU) replied with 33 points (!!!) and 5 rebounds for SISU. Horsens IC have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain fifth position with 11-15 record, which they share with Vaerlose. SISU at the other side keeps the fourth place with 14 games lost. Horsens IC will play against higher ranked Naestved (#3) at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. SISU will play against the league's leader Bakken in Aarhus and hopes to get back on the winning track. The game with biggest result difference took place in Naestved. Local Naestved (17-9) outscored 9th ranked Aabyhoj (8-18) 93-69 on Sunday night. Jordan Glynn had a double-double by scoring 22 points and 11 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners. Naestved's coach Geoff Kotila felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. D'Mario Curry responded with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds. Naestved have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 17-9 record having five points less than leader Bakken. Aabyhoj lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with 18 games lost. Naestved will meet Horsens IC (#5) in the next round. Aabyhoj will play against Horsholm (#7) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Rest of the games of round 26 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are: Aalborg was defeated by Vaerlose in a road game 79-73. Naestved beat Falcon at home 89-73. Bottom-ranked Falcon lost to Horsholm on the opponent's court 71-79.

The game in Horsens was also worth to mention about. One of their biggest challengers SISU (12-14) played at the court of fifth ranked Horsens IC (11-15). Horsens IC defeated SISU 94-81. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of SISU. SISU was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. Horsens IC shot 60.9 percent from the field. They also forced 19 SISU turnovers. It was a great shooting night for Horsens IC especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 53.3 percentage. American forward Will Harris (198-86, college: Albany) orchestrated the victory by scoring 34 points (!!!) and 4 assists. Slovenian guard Davor Sattler (185-86, agency: Global Sports Plaza) contributed with 14 points and 7 assists for the winners. Four Horsens IC players scored in double figures. American swingman Mickey Dennis (190-78, college: JMU) replied with 33 points (!!!) and 5 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Donald Rutherford (198-87, college: Catawba) added 16 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for SISU. Horsens IC have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain fifth position with 11-15 record, which they share with Vaerlose. SISU at the other side keeps the fourth place with 14 games lost. Horsens IC will play against higher ranked Naestved (#3) at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. SISU will play against the league's leader Bakken in Aarhus and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Horsens IC: W.Harris 34+2reb+4ast, D.Sattler 14+3reb+7ast, C.Lindberg 12+8reb+1ast, H.Schur 11+8reb, M.Sakne 9+2reb+2ast, M.St.John 8+1reb+4astSISU: M.Dennis 33+5reb, D.Rutherford 16+6reb+1ast, M.Nielsen 11+5reb+4ast, D.Harder 9+6reb+1ast, M.Flowers 7+4reb+2ast, M.Glahn 5+2ast

The game with biggest result difference took place in Naestved. Local Naestved (17-9) outscored 9th ranked Aabyhoj (8-18) 93-69 on Sunday night. The game was mostly controlled by Naestved. Aabyhoj managed to win third quarter 25-24. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Aabyhoj 40-27 including 27 on the defensive glass. American forward Jordan Glynn (200-89, college: SF Austin, agency: I.D.S. Law) had a double-double by scoring 22 points and 11 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international power forward Peter Johansen (205-80) chipped in 10 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. Naestved's coach Geoff Kotila felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward D'Mario Curry (201-85, college: Lincoln Memorial) responded with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Demetrius Phillips (207-87, college: Bridgeport) scored 18 points and 6 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Naestved have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 17-9 record having five points less than leader Bakken. Aabyhoj lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with 18 games lost. Naestved will meet Horsens IC (#5) in the next round. Aabyhoj will play against Horsholm (#7) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Naestved: J.Glynn 22+11reb, P.Christensen 13+1reb+1ast, C.Henry 13+2reb+5ast, P.Johansen 10+9reb+3ast, N.Brasas 9+3reb, M.Creppy 9+3reb+3astAabyhoj: D.Phillips 18+6reb, D.Curry 15+12reb+2ast, O.Sigurdsson 11+3reb+1ast, D.Jukic 11+3reb+3ast, J.Wang 8+1reb, A.Elsner 4+1ast

There was no surprise when 8th ranked Aalborg (8-17) was defeated on the road by sixth ranked Vaerlose (11-15) 79-73 on Sunday. Aalborg was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Vaerlose made 8 blocks. The game was dominated by American players. Power forward Christopher Sprinker (205, college: Cent.Washington) had a double-double by scoring 16 points and 13 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Reginald Delk (193-86, college: Louisville) chipped in 14 points and 6 assists during the contest. point guard Ryan White (177-88, college: Texas St.) responded with 22 points, 6 assists and 5 steals and forward Tony Bishop (201-89, college: Texas St.) produced a double-double by scoring 15 points and 12 rebounds. Five Vaerlose and four Aalborg players scored in double figures. Vaerlose moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Horsens IC. Aalborg lost third consecutive game. They keep the eighth position with 17 games lost. Vaerlose will meet bottom-ranked Falcon (#10) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Aalborg will play against the league's second-placed Svendborg and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Vaerlose: C.Sprinker 16+13reb, R.Delk 14+4reb+6ast, A.Karason 13+5reb+3ast, M.Rasmussen 11+3reb+3ast, P.Moller 10+6reb+1ast, P.Simonsen 6+4astAalborg: R.White 22+2reb+6ast, T.Bishop 15+12reb+1ast, R.Lauridsen 12+2ast, S.Eleraky 10+6reb, M.Rasmussen 6+6reb+2ast, S.Hansen 6+1ast

No shocking result in a game when third ranked Naestved (17-9) defeated at home bottom-ranked Falcon (6-20) 89-73 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Naestved. Falcon managed to win third quarter 25-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 21-of-23 free shots (91.3 percent) during the game. Naestved outrebounded Falcon 37-23 including a 27-13 advantage in defensive rebounds. American point guard Corin Henry (180-88, college: Tarleton St.) scored 25 points and 5 assists (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!) to lead the charge for the winners and Lithuanian forward Nerijus Brasas (200-85) chipped in 13 points and 4 assists during the contest. Five Naestved players scored in double figures. Senegalese power forward Pape Ba (207-80, college: Beth.-Cookman) responded with 15 points and 8 rebounds and Mexican Robert Fields scored 15 points and 5 assists. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Naestved have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 17-9 record having five points less than leader Bakken. Falcon lost fifth consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom place with 20 games lost. Naestved will meet Horsens IC (#5) in the next round. Falcon will play against Vaerlose (#6) and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Naestved: C.Henry 25+2reb+5ast, N.Brasas 13+4reb+4ast, M.Frandsen 11+5reb+2ast, J.Glynn 10+11reb, P.Johansen 10+4reb+1ast, M.Creppy 10+5reb+2astFalcon: H.Thomsen 17+1reb+2ast, R.Fields 15+3reb+5ast, P.Ba 15+8reb+1ast, J.McFarlane 7+2reb+2ast, C.Nielsen 6+3reb, P.Christiansen 5+2reb+2ast

Top ranked Bakken (23-2) recorded its second loss in Aarhus on Thursday night. Hosts were defeated by second ranked Svendborg (23-3) 81-70. It ended at the same time the 19-game winning streak of Bakken. It may be a crucial game in the contest for the top position in the league. The guests trailed by 5 points after three quarters before their 27-11 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Svendborg dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to Bakken's 28. The best player for the winners was the former international guard Adama Darboe (190-86) who scored 23 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. International guard Mikkel Plannthin (195-88) chipped in 17 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Svendborg players scored in double figures. American guard Joshua Alexander (193-87, college: SF Austin) produced 23 points and 6 rebounds and the former international power forward Nicolai Iversen (205-80, college: San Jose City JC) added 22 points respectively for the hosts. Bakken's coach Philip Dejworek rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Svendborg maintains second position with 23-3 record having just -1 point less than leader Bakken. Defending champion Bakken still keeps top place with two games lost. Svendborg are looking forward to face Aalborg (#8) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Bakken will play against SISU (#4) in Copenhagen and is hoping to win this game. Top scorers:Svendborg: A.Darboe 23+8reb+6ast, M.Plannthin 17+7reb+4ast, D.Vinson 12+7reb+1ast, M.Kingsley 12+7reb+1ast, C.Magaard 5+4reb, C.Colman 4+2reb+4astBakken: J.Alexander 23+6reb+1ast, N.Iversen 22+4reb+1ast, A.Jakobsen 10+4reb+5ast, C.Nielsen 7+2reb+3ast, C.Christoffersen 4+8reb+2ast, F.Nielsen 3+1reb+1ast

Rather expected game when 10th ranked Falcon (6-20) was defeated on the road by seventh ranked Horsholm (10-16) 79-71 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 6 points after three quarters before their 25-11 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Horsholm made 23-of-30 free shots (76.7 percent) during the game. American power forward Joe Benjamin (201-83, college: W.Virginia St.) had a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import forward Bonell Colas (205-82, college: Florida) chipped in 15 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. The former international guard Julian McFarlane (184-86) responded with 22 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists and Senegalese power forward Pape Ba (207-80, college: Beth.-Cookman) produced a double-double by scoring 11 points and 12 rebounds. Five Horsholm and four Falcon players scored in double figures. Falcon's coach Henrik Koll tested eleven players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Horsholm maintains seventh position with 10-16 record. Falcon lost fifth consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom place with 20 games lost. Horsholm will meet Aabyhoj (#9) on the road in the next round. Falcon will play against Vaerlose and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Horsholm: J.Benjamin 18+10reb+3ast, B.Colas 15+9reb+3ast, A.Haas 12+1ast, A.Bak 12+5reb+3ast, P.Hertz 10+4reb+2ast, V.Aleksic 5+4reb+3astFalcon: J.McFarlane 22+6reb+5ast, R.Fields 13+1reb+3ast, P.Ba 11+12reb+1ast, C.Nielsen 10+2reb, K.Norsgaard 5, C.Thomsen 4+5reb

Gerald Green leads West to NBADL All-Star win - by Eurobasket NewsLos Angeles D-Fenders guard Gerald Green (6'8''-G/F-86) scored 28 points and took home MVP honors in leading the West to a 135-132 win Saturday afternoon in the NBA Development League All-Star Game at the Orange County Convention Center.

Kalev/Cramo was beaten by Russian representative in VTB League last night. The Estonian squad lost to Krasnie Krilya 63:77. Krasnie Krilya led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Brion Rush (186-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Grambling St.) notched 29 points to lead the effort and Dragan Labovic (207-C/F-87, agency: Alti Sport) supported him with 22 points. Even 6 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists by Armands Skele (192-G-83) did not help to save the game for Kalev/Cramo. Gregor Arbet (194-F/G-83) added 12 points for lost side. Krasnie Krilya maintains fifth position with 7-7 record. Kalev/Cramo lost eleventh consecutive game. Defending Estonian champion keeps the ninth place with 12 games lost. Kalev/Cramo will play on the road against VEF Riga.

THOUGHTS FROM THE SIDELINE - by Ozell Wells THOUGHTS FROM THE SIDELINE

The all star break is upon us and the normal expected run of the mill, skills competition, slam dunk contest and the rookie/sophomore challenge will draw loads of fans into the arena and glue them to their television sets. The biggest thing missing is that NO ONE IS DISCUSSING the AGREED UPON LEAGUE WIDE ROSTER REDUCTION!Yes, the NBA received agreement on Friday of a league wide reduction of roster spots for each team. The owners have agreed to 13 roster spots for players on each team, subject to approval from the NBAPA, we will see a little bit of a shakeup; as we are already experiencing a shortened season, due to the player lockout which spanned from June to December of 2011. After sitting through months of debating, false media spin and tell tales across the globe, players testing the international waters (some to be released and others to be locked into contracts with no way out), and then treated to a Christmas Extravaganza which was pretty much beyond belief as clubs, after a mere two week training camp, played a type of basketball similar to watching men just off of work playing at the local health club. The most amazing thing in all of that was that the gen pop, there is that correctional facility talk again, were so very happy and eager to have the NBA back; like the long-lost lover gone astray but returning home. The public accepted THE LEAGUE back with warm,inviting arms. Never questioning the product that they were then presented with, ALL ATTENTION turning to how many points Lebron or Kobe scored, or if D Rose was ready to assume his title as THE NEXT KING OF THE HILL in the NBA. It seemed as if everyone turned a deaf ear or a blind eye to the Breakup of Kobe Bryant and his wife, with their children left as the collateral damage in the wake of things, or the awful loss of a career by the two players who signed meaningful, substantial contracts,only to find out that they suffered from life-threatening illnesses, which subsequently voided the contracts.Often tine, once a lover returns, we tend to look beyond the reasons for the separation, and in our joy for a return to the normal way of life; we also tend to not see things for what they are. The NBA, after its rushed training camps and in the midst of a season of games with long road trips sandwiched into a season if we can honestly call this a basketball season. What I have seen, been interviewed about and have been writing about weekly to you, is not what I dreamed of most of my young life. The games that would not ever reach 100 points, the defensive struggles where both teams would only score 80 points apiece, the BAD BOYS of the late '80's winning back to back NBA Titles solely on defensive intensity and a will to win. What we have been presented with is, a very large group of overpaid, athletes who have taken it upon themselves to demand to be traded to what they believe are better markets; where they can promote their brand. Where the athletes appears to be in control of everything, leaving behind damaged families in their wake, fatherless children often times and entire cities devoid of their local hero, due to him feeling under-appreciated and desiring to play in front of star studded audiences....TOTALLY UNTOLERABLY UNFAIR.Unfair in that the basketball purists are left watching something that has been thrown together and not given proper time to become truly indicative of the GREATEST GAME ON EARTH. What we have, as I talked about in previous thoughts from the sideline is A PLAYER'S LEAGUE, in which the players call the shots, periodically have coaches fired and routinely do not follow instructions in the end of close games. The fan's always so trusting and loving care not for the unemployed coaches who only wanted to instill some order amongst the chaotic situation that they saw on the horizon, or the loyal fans who feel betrayed for loving to their fullest, a player or players who have shunned the love, affection and devotion.Gone are the days where a player would play out his career in one city, his name becoming synonymous with the team. Reggie Miller- Indiana Pacers, Isaiah Thomas-Detroit Pistons, Larry Bird-Boston Celtics, or Magic Johnson-LA Lakers as examples. Players chasing the bright lights of the big cities and the flash of the cameras have left us with a shell of what once was a thing of beauty. I do feel that the game is evolving, as evidenced by the bright spots on the radar the Jeremy Lin, Rodney Monroe, Isaiah Thomas, Blake Griffin or even Rickey Rubio. The game can and will return to what we once saw, admired and fell in love with. Speaking of which, the Kings have unearthed a point guard. Second round steal Isaiah Thomas started the last four games and averaged 19 points, six assists and 51% mostly from point blank range because no one seems to be able to stay in front of him.I would like to wish each and every one of you a happy and eventful ALL STAR WEEKEND, and hope that you enjoy the show, the dunks, the long range bombs and the star studded halftime events. Please in the midst of all of the hoopla, recall in your mind, the beauty of the game and the simplicity of it when it is played the right way, both on and off of the court.

Maccabi Enters Hectic Week And Exercises Roster Possibilities - by David PickWith the Euroleague Top 16 round well underway and the Elite 8 on the horizon, Maccabi Tel-Aviv enters a hectic but meaningless NBA-like schedule, playing three games in four nights.

Tonight (Sunday), Tel-Aviv will face Maccabi Haifa, who will try to overcome an 11-game losing streak. On Monday, the yellow-and-blue play host to Hemofarm Vrsac of the Adriatic League. Come Tuesday, Maccabi will depart for Spain for the team's last match of the Euroleague Top 16 round versus Catalonian favorites Barcelona.

In preparation for next season and after Head Coach David Blatt approved reports of a possible contract extension with Maccabi, Tel-Aviv's budget's makes ends meet. As a result, the likelihood of re-signing top dollar players such as Sofoklis Schortsanitis and Keith Langford, is currently all up in the air.

On the other hand, potential recruits catching the team's spotlight are Unics Kazan's 32-year-old guard Henry Domercant, who's averaging a Euroleague career high 16.13ppg. Like wine, Domercant seems to improve and progress as time goes by and may land in Tel-Aviv sooner than later, if Kazan draws Maccabi in the Elite 8. Yet, his two-year deal with the Russian squad appears to be an obstacle.

BC Khimky Moscow's smart and efficient Croatian Kresimir Loncar, is also on the radar. Despite playing just two Euroleague games this season, Loncar posted numbers of 20.5ppg on 65.2% field goal shooting, in addition to grabbing nearly 9 rebounds per game.

Lithuania's Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius explosive point guard Tyrese Riceis also high on demand, as are CSKA's Sammy Mejia (has contract for another season) and Maccabi's former player currently hooping for Anadolu Efes, Esteban Batista.

1st Division Round 20: Tapiolan Honka loses to Saynatsalon Riento - by Eurobasket NewsThere are only two more rounds left in the Regular Season in 1st Division.

The most important game in the last round took place in Tapiolan between second ranked Tapiolan Honka (14-6) and tenth ranked Saynatsalon Riento (8-12) on Sunday night. Tapiolan Honka was defeated by Saynatsalon Riento at home 73-91. The game was mostly controlled by Saynatsalon Riento. Tapiolan Honka managed to win fourth quarter 23-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Saynatsalon Riento shot 29 for 41 from the free-throw line, while Tapiolan Honka only scored eleven points from the stripe. 27 personal fouls committed by Tapiolan Honka helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American power forward Eryk Thomas (200-85, college: E.Tenn.St.) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 13 rebounds. The other American import guard Bilal Abdullah (196-84, college: Lafayette) contributed with 15 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. American guard Brandon Thomas (192-85, college: Texas St.) replied with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds for Tapiolan Honka. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Saynatsalon Riento moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Ura Basket. Tapiolan Honka at the other side keeps the second position with six games lost. They share it with Lapua and Pyrinto II. Saynatsalon Riento is looking forward to face higher ranked Oulun NMKY (#6) at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Tapiolan Honka will play against Torpan Pojat (#11) in Helsinki and is hoping to win this game. Very important is a road loss of third ranked Lapuan Korikobrat (14-6) against fourth ranked Pyrinto II (14-6) on Sunday night. Visiting Lapuan Korikobrat was defeated by Pyrinto II in a tough game in Tampere 74-81. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Lapuan Korikobrat. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Joni Harjula (189-83) who helped to win the game recording 19 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists and Jari Pulkkinen who added 18 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. American guard Walter Baxley (193-84, college: Mars Hill) responded with 25 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Pyrinto II moved-up to second place, which they share with Lapua and Tapiolan Honka. Pyrinto II will play against BC Nokia (#5) on the road in the next round. Lapuan Korikobrat will play against Ura Basket in Kaarina and hopes to get back on the winning track. An interesting game was also surprising road defeat of 5th ranked BC Nokia in a game in Aanekoski versus Aanekosken Huima (#8) 88-79. The winners were led by Baboucarr Bojang who had that evening a double-double by scoring 18 points and 17 rebounds. Even 19 points and 8 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) by Darren Townes did not help to save the game for BC Nokia. Aanekosken Huima (9-11) moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Porvoon Tarmo. Loser BC Nokia keeps the fifth position with seven games lost. Aanekosken Huima will meet league's leader Forssan Koripojat on the road in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. BC Nokia will play against Pyrinto II (#4) in Tampere and it may be a tough game between close rivals. 1st Division top team - Forssan Koripojat (16-4) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed sixth ranked Oulun NMKY (10-10) 103-77. American players dominated the game. The best player for the winners was Christopher Thompson who had a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Forssan Koripojat have a solid four-game winning streak. Forssan Koripojat maintains first position with 16-4 record. Oulun NMKY lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the sixth place with ten games lost. Forssan Koripojat's next round opponent will be Aanekosken Huima (#8) in Aanekoski and are hoping to win another game. Oulun NMKY will play on the road against Saynatsalon Riento in Jyvaskyla.

In the last game of round 20 Porvoon Tarmo beat Ura Basket on the road 90-75.

1st Division top team - Forssan Koripojat (16-4) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed sixth ranked Oulun NMKY (10-10) 103-77. The game without a history. Forssan Koripojat led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Forssan Koripojat outrebounded Oulun NMKY 42-24 including a 33-20 advantage in defensive rebounds. American players dominated the game. The best player for the winners was forward Christopher Thompson (198-82, college: S.Indiana) who had a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds. Forward HL Coleman (202-74, college: Wyoming) chipped in 17 points and 7 rebounds. Five Forssan Koripojat players scored in double figures. Forward Josh Nofflet (194-88, college: Lee) produced 26 points and 7 rebounds and power forward Brian Moultrie (198-87, college: Armstr.Atlantic) added 15 points and 12 rebounds respectively for the hosts. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Forssan Koripojat have a solid four-game winning streak. Forssan Koripojat maintains first position with 16-4 record. Oulun NMKY lost third consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the sixth place with ten games lost. Forssan Koripojat's next round opponent will be Aanekosken Huima (#8) in Aanekoski and are hoping to win another game. Oulun NMKY will play on the road against Saynatsalon Riento in Jyvaskyla. Top scorers:Oulun NMKY: J.Nofflet 26+7reb+2ast, L.Phillips 18+2reb+3ast, B.Moultrie 15+12reb+2ast, J.Siivikko 8+1ast, H.Vihavainen 6+1reb, A.Kemppainen 2FoKoPo: H.Coleman 17+7reb+3ast, C.Thompson 16+10reb+1ast, T.Robinson 15+6reb+3ast, M.Molenius 14+6reb+1ast, S.Ikavalko 12+5reb+3ast, E.Johansson 10+2reb

An interesting game was also surprising road defeat of 5th ranked BC Nokia in a game in Aanekoski versus Aanekosken Huima (#8) 88-79. The hosts trailed by 7 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 11-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 88-79. Aanekosken Huima had a 18-5 advantage in offensive rebounds. The winners were led by Gambian forward Baboucarr Bojang (204-80, college: Illinois St.) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 18 points and 17 rebounds and forward Marcel Liukko (195-92) supported him with 26 points and 6 rebounds. Even 19 points and 8 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) by American forward Darren Townes (201-86, college: Hofstra) did not help to save the game for BC Nokia. Guard Timo Riihela (193-80) added 15 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists for the guests. Four Aanekosken Huima and five BC Nokia players scored in double figures. Aanekosken Huima (9-11) moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Porvoon Tarmo. Loser BC Nokia keeps the fifth position with seven games lost. Aanekosken Huima will meet league's leader Forssan Koripojat on the road in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. BC Nokia will play against Pyrinto II (#4) in Tampere and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:BC Nokia: D.Townes 19+8reb+2ast, G.January 16+6reb, T.Riihela 15+8reb+6ast, T.Kankaanpaa 14+2ast, V.Tuominen 10+1reb+1ast, J.Kauro 5+4reb+1astHuima: M.Liukko 26+6reb+1ast, T.Manning 22+3reb+5ast, B.Bojang 18+17reb+2ast, S.Kajander 15+2reb+1ast, T.Viertola 7+4reb+10ast, J.Uecker 0+1reb

Everything could happen in Kaarina at the game between two tied teams. Both eighth ranked Porvoon Tarmo and 9th ranked Ura Basket had identical 8-11 record. But Ura Basket was not able to use a home court advantage and was defeated by the opponent from Porvoo 90-75. It was a very close game until the last quarter, when Porvoon Tarmo's pressure prevailed and they won that period 28-20 extending their advantage to 15 points. Porvoon Tarmo made 20-of-23 charity shots (87.0 percent) during the game. Porvoon Tarmo forced 22 Ura Basket turnovers. The best player for the winners was American forward Jerrah Young (202-85, college: Toledo) who had a double-double by scoring 23 points and 16 rebounds (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line). The other American import guard Benzor Simmons (195-88, college: Tenn-Martin) chipped in 26 points and 8 rebounds. Young is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four Porvoon Tarmo players scored in double figures. Trinidad and Tobago power forward Eze Andrews (201-83, college: Savannah St., agency: Court Side) produced 24 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists and guard Petri Kallio (176-82) added 12 points and 5 assists respectively for the hosts. Porvoon Tarmo have a solid four-game winning streak. Porvoon Tarmo (9-11) moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Huima. Ura Basket at the other side keeps the ninth position with 12 games lost. Porvoon Tarmo's next round opponent will be bottom-ranked BC Jyvaskyla (#12) at home where they are favorite. Ura Basket will play against Lapuan Korikobrat. Top scorers:Ura Basket: E.Andrews 24+8reb+4ast, J.Alanko 14+4reb, P.Kallio 12+3reb+5ast, S.Salminen 8+4reb, J.Saari 8+4reb+3ast, C.Franklin 7+7reb+4astPorvoon Tarmo: B.Simmons 26+8reb+2ast, J.Young 23+16reb+2ast, S.Henderson 21+10reb+2ast, J.Nissinen 14+4reb+1ast, S.Beatovic 2, K.Hytonen 2+2reb

The most important game in the last round took place in Tapiolan between second ranked Tapiolan Honka (14-6) and tenth ranked Saynatsalon Riento (8-12) on Sunday night. Tapiolan Honka was defeated by Saynatsalon Riento at home 73-91. The game was mostly controlled by Saynatsalon Riento. Tapiolan Honka managed to win fourth quarter 23-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Saynatsalon Riento shot 29 for 41 from the free-throw line, while Tapiolan Honka only scored eleven points from the stripe. 27 personal fouls committed by Tapiolan Honka helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American power forward Eryk Thomas (200-85, college: E.Tenn.St.) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 13 rebounds. The other American import guard Bilal Abdullah (196-84, college: Lafayette) contributed with 15 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Abdullah is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. American guard Brandon Thomas (192-85, college: Texas St.) replied with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds and point guard Villematti Kopio (182-92) added 15 points and 5 assists in the effort for Tapiolan Honka. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Saynatsalon Riento moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Ura Basket. Tapiolan Honka at the other side keeps the second position with six games lost. They share it with Lapua and Pyrinto II. Saynatsalon Riento is looking forward to face higher ranked Oulun NMKY (#6) at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Tapiolan Honka will play against Torpan Pojat (#11) in Helsinki and is hoping to win this game. Top scorers:Tapiolan Honka: V.Kopio 15+1reb+5ast, B.Thomas 12+10reb+2ast, T.Laitinen 10+7reb, D.Dolenc 10+6reb, I.Sirola 10+6reb, K.Naapi 8+4reb+2astSayRi: E.Thomas 24+13reb+1ast, J.Luoma 18+6reb, A.Conerly 16+4reb+5ast, B.Abdullah 15+9reb+4ast, E.Nieminen 13+2reb+1ast, J.Lehto 3

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Lapuan Korikobrat (14-6) against fourth ranked Pyrinto II (14-6) on Sunday night. Visiting Lapuan Korikobrat was defeated by Pyrinto II in a tough game in Tampere 74-81. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Lapuan Korikobrat. The hosts were already 20 points ahead at halftime and as many as 22 after three quarters before a 26-11 last quarter charge of Lapuan Korikobrat cut the lead to 81-74 at the end of the game. Strangely Lapuan Korikobrat outrebounded Pyrinto II 44-31 including 16 on the offensive glass. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Joni Harjula (189-83) who helped to win the game recording 19 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists and Jari Pulkkinen (203-84) who added 18 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. Four Pyrinto II players scored in double figures. American guard Walter Baxley (193-84, college: Mars Hill) responded with 25 points and 5 rebounds and his fellow American import forward Eric Williams (198-85, college: Tarleton St.) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 13 rebounds. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Pyrinto II moved-up to second place, which they share with Lapua and Tapiolan Honka. Pyrinto II will play against BC Nokia (#5) on the road in the next round. Lapuan Korikobrat will play against Ura Basket in Kaarina and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Lapua: W.Baxley 25+5reb+2ast, E.Williams 16+13reb+1ast, E.Jackson 15+10reb+3ast, K.Siven 9+7reb, H.Jokinen 6+4reb, V.Turja 3+3reb+1astPyrinto II: O.Heinonen 19+1reb, J.Harjula 19+9reb+7ast, J.Pulkkinen 18+6reb, J.Niemi 12+5reb+2ast, K.Rasinaho 6+2reb, J.Kilpinen 4+1reb

NM1 Round 23: Charleville-Mezieres lose #1 position - by Eurobasket NewsThe round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. The round ended with change at the leadership position, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

Round 23 in NM1 means a new league leader. The biggest surprise took place in Brest where host Etendard de Brest (12-11) edged league's leader Charleville-Mezieres (17-6) 84-82 on Friday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Charleville-Mezieres. The hosts trailed by 8 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 7-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 84-82. Etendard de Brest forced 19 Charleville-Mezieres turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. The best player for the winners was Cameroonian power forward Brice Vounang (202-82, college: San Diego) who scored 14 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. Lithuanian forward Vaidotas Pridotkas (200-84) chipped in 15 points and 5 assists. American forward Corey Belser (200-82, college: San Diego) produced 22 points and 7 rebounds for the guests. Etendard de Brest have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to tenth place, which they share with Lievin. Charleville-Mezieres at the other side dropped to the second position with six games lost. They were replaced at the leadership position by St Quentin. Charleville-Mezieres will play next round against strong Souffelweyersheim trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Etendard de Brest will try to continue on its current victory against ninth ranked Sorgues on the road. Very important is a road loss of third ranked Orchesien BC (16-7) against eighth ranked Vendee Challans (13-10) on Saturday night. Visiting Orchesien BC was defeated by Vendee Challans in a tough game in Challans 75-83. It ended at the same time the eight-game winning streak of Orchesien BC. Forward Fabien Herard (198-79) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points and 9 rebounds (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). Josh Almanson contributed with 19 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Center Olivier Gouez (219-84) answered with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds for Orchesien BC. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Vendee Challans maintains eighth place with 13-10 record, which they share with Sorgues. Orchesien BC at the other side keeps the third position with seven games lost. They share it with Souffel. Vendee Challans will play against higher ranked Cognac (#5) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Orchesien BC will play against Roche and hopes to get back on the winning track. The game in Roche was also quite interesting. 6th ranked Blois (14-9) played at the court of seventh ranked Roche (15-8). Roche managed to secure a 7-point victory 71-64 on Friday. It was a great evening for Aurelien Toto N'Kote who led his team to a victory scoring 15 points and 5 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Ville Kaunisto responded with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 14 rebounds. Roche moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Cognac. Loser Blois dropped to the seventh position with nine games lost. Roche will meet higher ranked Orchesien BC (#3) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Blois will play against CFBB (#18) in Paris and hope to secure a win. A very interesting game took place in Chartres. It ended with only three-point home defeat of 12th ranked Chartres (10-13) to ninth ranked Sorgues (13-10) 72-69 on Saturday evening. It was an exceptional evening for Slobodan Ocokoljic who led the winners and scored 13 points. Chartres' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Sorgues moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Challans. Newly promoted Chartres keeps the twelfth position with 13 games lost. Sorgues' next round opponent will be Etendard de Brest (#10) at home. Chartres will play against Lievin Basket and it may be a tough game between close rivals. We should mention about the upset which took place in Clermont, where higher ranked Lievin Basket (12-11) lost to fifteenth ranked Stade Clermont (8-15) in a road game 75-79 on Friday. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Lievin Basket. The best player for the winners was Marcus Jackson who had a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Stade Clermont maintains fifteenth place with 8-15 record. Loser Lievin Basket dropped to the tenth position with 11 games lost. Stade Clermont will face league's leader Saint-Quentin on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.

Other games of round 23 were very predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are: Angers BC 49 defeated Le Puy in a road game 70-65. Rueil was beaten by Cognac at home 75-91. Montbrison was destroyed by Souffel on the opponent's court 87-60.

The game in Roche was also quite interesting. 6th ranked Blois (14-9) played at the court of seventh ranked Roche (15-8). Roche managed to secure a 7-point victory 71-64 on Friday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 20-14. But Blois won second period 19-16. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Roche won last quarter 17-12. It was a great evening for forward Aurelien Toto N'Kote (194-79) who led his team to a victory scoring 15 points and 5 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Guard Benjamin Thomas (181-82) helped adding 12 points. Finnish forward Ville Kaunisto (204-82) responded with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 14 rebounds and point guard Pierre Brochard (185-80) scored 19 points. Roche moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Cognac. Loser Blois dropped to the seventh position with nine games lost. Roche will meet higher ranked Orchesien BC (#3) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Blois will play against CFBB (#18) in Paris and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Roche: A.Toto N'Kote 15+4reb+5ast, B.Thomas 12+3reb+2ast, F.Bateko 11+3reb+1ast, M.Diallo 9+5reb+2ast, S.Hermenier 8+4reb+2ast, L.Simmons 6+7reb+3astBlois: V.Kaunisto 21+14reb+2ast, P.Brochard 19+1ast, T.Sani 7+8reb+1ast, D.Davis 6+5reb+4ast, B.Recoura 4+2reb+2ast, M.Sy 4

There was no surprise in Le Puy en Velay where 16th ranked Le Puy ASMB (4-19) was defeated by thirteenth ranked Angers BC 49 (10-13) 70-65 on Saturday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Le Puy ASMB won third quarter 21-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Angers BC 49 won last quarter 10-7. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Le Puy ASMB to just 7 points in fourth quarter. The best player for the winners was guard Olivier Sulpice (192-77) who scored 17 points and 7 rebounds. Swingman Pierre-Etienne Drouault (194-90) chipped in 16 points and 5 rebounds. Center Steeve Borval (202-87) produced 12 points and 8 rebounds and forward Yohann Smail (197-90) added 16 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) respectively for the hosts. Angers BC 49 moved-up to twelfth place, which they share with Chartres. Le Puy ASMB lost seventh consecutive game. They keep the sixteenth position with 19 games lost. Angers BC 49 will face Rueil (#14) at home in the next round. Le Puy ASMB will play against Montbrison and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Angers BC 49: O.Sulpice 17+7reb, P.Drouault 16+5reb+2ast, T.Lonzieme 12+5reb+3ast, T.Pearson 9+5reb+3ast, M.Chupin 6+2reb+3ast, A.Fellah 4+6reb+1astLe Puy: Y.Smail 16+4reb+1ast, S.Borval 12+8reb+3ast, M.Gotagni 9+4reb, R.Wilson 9+4reb+3ast, G.Sene 9+4reb+3ast, F.Bornerand 6+2ast

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Orchesien BC (16-7) against eighth ranked Vendee Challans (13-10) on Saturday night. Visiting Orchesien BC was defeated by Vendee Challans in a tough game in Challans 75-83. It ended at the same time the eight-game winning streak of Orchesien BC. The hosts were ahead by 5 points but lost the second period ending it with a 2-point deficit before their 26-16 run, which allowed them to win the game. Vendee Challans made 31-of-36 charity shots (86.1 percent) during the game. Orchesien BC was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. Forward Fabien Herard (198-79) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points and 9 rebounds (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line). American forward Josh Almanson (205-82, college: Bowling Green) contributed with 19 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Center Olivier Gouez (219-84) answered with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds and swingman David Cilly (196-81) added 17 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Orchesien BC. Four Orchesien BC players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Vendee Challans maintains eighth place with 13-10 record, which they share with Sorgues. Orchesien BC at the other side keeps the third position with seven games lost. They share it with Souffel. Vendee Challans will play against higher ranked Cognac (#5) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Orchesien BC will play against Roche and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Challans: F.Herard 23+9reb+2ast, J.Almanson 19+8reb, S.Cherasse 14+1reb+1ast, N.Gouacide 8+2reb+1ast, J.Geay 6+2reb+1ast, G.Renon 5Orchy: O.Gouez 22+10reb+2ast, D.Cilly 17+6reb+3ast, J.Bluntt 11+5reb+1ast, A.Belkessa 10+1reb, D.Petrovic 5+6reb, J.Verbeke 4+2ast

No shocking result in a game when sixth ranked Cognac (15-8) defeated on the road 14th ranked Rueil (9-14) 91-75 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by Cognac. Rueil was better in third quarter 23-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Cognac forced 28 Rueil turnovers. Strangely Rueil outrebounded Cognac 42-20 including a 18-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. Rueil was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was guard Jonathan Godin (185-82) who scored 15 points, 7 assists and 4 steals. Naturalized Mali guard Ibrahim Saounera (179-87) chipped in 14 points and 4 assists. Four Cognac players scored in double figures. Center Moise Diame (206-86) produced a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field) and Georgian center Georges Mdivani (205-85) added 16 points and 10 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Cognac moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Roche. Rueil at the other side, also newcomer in the league, keeps the fourteenth position with 14 games lost. Cognac will face Vendee Challans (#8) at home in the next round. Rueil will play against Angers BC 49 (#12) and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Cognac: J.Godin 15+2reb+7ast, I.Saounera 14+2reb+4ast, M.Buval 14+2reb+1ast, M.Bigote 11+3ast, I.Caskill 10+5reb, S.Doucoure 10+3rebRueil: M.Diame 19+10reb+2ast, G.Mdivani 16+10reb+3ast, C.Mansare 11+4reb+4ast, S.Cabarkapa 9+5reb+1ast, K.Gourari 7+4reb+2ast, T.Chevigny 6+3reb

We should mention about the upset which took place in Clermont, where higher ranked Lievin Basket (12-11) lost to fifteenth ranked Stade Clermont (8-15) in a road game 75-79 on Friday. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Lievin Basket. Lievin Basket was trailing by 9 points at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 23-18 charge of Stade Clermont, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was American forward Marcus Jackson (202-82, college: Marquette, agency: Court Side) who had a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Bulgarian swingman Simeon Naydenov (201-81, college: Louisville, agency: Global Sports Plaza) chipped in 23 points. Four Stade Clermont players scored in double figures. Guard Jerome Dessart (184-84) produced 7 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists and guard Vincent Lehut (186-87) added 16 points respectively for the guests. Stade Clermont maintains fifteenth place with 8-15 record. Loser Lievin Basket dropped to the tenth position with 11 games lost. Stade Clermont will face league's leader Saint-Quentin on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Top scorers:Clermont: S.Naydenov 23+3reb+2ast, M.Jackson 16+11reb+2ast, X.Delarue 12+4reb+4ast, B.Matanga 10+3reb+3ast, M.Diakite 5+2reb+2ast, J.Cortey 5+2reb+2astLievin: V.Lehut 16+1reb+1ast, S.Cretaux 13+3reb, A.Hoard 10+8reb, T.Sanborn 9+4reb+2ast, M.Hachi 7+3reb, V.Mendy 7+3reb+1ast

Very expected game in Souffel. where 17th ranked Montbrison (3-20) was rolled over by fourth ranked Souffelweyersheim (16-7) 87-60 on Saturday. The game without a history. Souffelweyersheim led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 20-of-26 free shots (76.9 percent) during the game. Souffelweyersheim forced 19 Montbrison turnovers. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Souffelweyersheim made 7 blocks. The best player for the winners was guard Frederic Broliron (193-79) who scored 20 points. Swingman Jessie Begarin (190-88, agency: Court Side) chipped in 14 points and 4 assists. Five Souffelweyersheim players scored in double figures. Guard Benjamin Tillon (189-85) produced 11 points and 4 assists and forward Kevin Mondesir (203-91) added 12 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the guests. Montbrison's coach Marc Berjoan gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Souffelweyersheim have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with Orchy. Montbrison lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the seventeenth position with 20 games lost. Souffelweyersheim will face league's second-placed Charleville-Mezieres on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Montbrison will play against Le Puy ASMB (#16) in Le Puy en Velay and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Souffel: F.Broliron 20+3reb, J.Begarin 14+2reb+4ast, J.Alingue 13+5reb+1ast, A.N'Diaye 10+4reb+1ast, T.Traineau 10+7reb, J.Tschamber 9+1reb+5astMontbrison: K.Mondesir 12+5reb, B.Tillon 11+4reb+4ast, C.Pegon 9+1reb+1ast, L.Biela 6+2reb+1ast, J.St Robert 6+1reb+1ast, R.Aubry 6+6reb+2ast

Round 23 in NM1 means a new league leader. The biggest surprise took place in Brest where host Etendard de Brest (12-11) edged league's leader Charleville-Mezieres (17-6) 84-82 on Friday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Charleville-Mezieres. The hosts trailed by 8 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 7-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 84-82. Etendard de Brest forced 19 Charleville-Mezieres turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. The best player for the winners was Cameroonian power forward Brice Vounang (202-82, college: San Diego) who scored 14 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. Lithuanian forward Vaidotas Pridotkas (200-84) chipped in 15 points and 5 assists. American forward Corey Belser (200-82, college: San Diego) produced 22 points and 7 rebounds and guard Fabien Calvez (187-84, college: Evansville) added 20 points and 6 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) respectively for the guests. Four Charleville-Mezieres players scored in double figures. Etendard de Brest have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to tenth place, which they share with Lievin. Charleville-Mezieres at the other side dropped to the second position with six games lost. They were replaced at the leadership position by St Quentin. Charleville-Mezieres will play next round against strong Souffelweyersheim trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Etendard de Brest will try to continue on its current victory against ninth ranked Sorgues on the road. Top scorers:Brest: V.Pridotkas 15+4reb+5ast, B.Vounang 14+8reb+6ast, A.Liorel 11+4reb+2ast, J.Doreau 10+2reb+2ast, J.Rathieuville 9+2reb+8ast, R.Lopez 9+4reb+1astCharleville: C.Belser 22+7reb+1ast, F.Calvez 20+1reb+6ast, N.Boundy 14+5reb+1ast, D.Pistre 11+5reb+2ast, C.Guillarme 8+5reb+2ast, T.Toney 4+7reb+4ast

A very interesting game took place in Chartres. It ended with only three-point home defeat of 12th ranked Chartres (10-13) to ninth ranked Sorgues (13-10) 72-69 on Saturday evening. The guests were ahead by 3 points but lost the second period ending it with a 2-point deficit before their 19-14 run, which allowed them to win the game. It was an exceptional evening for Serbian forward Slobodan Ocokoljic (204-80, college: Weber St.) who led the winners and scored 13 points. Center Xavier Pasut (200-84) accounted for 14 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winning side. Guard Willy Berquier (177-87) came up with 10 points, 6 rebounds and 7 assists and center Herve Jalce (201-80) added 11 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Chartres in the defeat. Chartres' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Sorgues moved-up to eighth place, which they share with Challans. Newly promoted Chartres keeps the twelfth position with 13 games lost. Sorgues' next round opponent will be Etendard de Brest (#10) at home. Chartres will play against Lievin Basket and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Sorgues: D.Quincy-Jones 14+2reb+1ast, X.Pasut 14+4reb+1ast, S.Ocokoljic 13+3reb+3ast, Y.Bassine 7+3reb+5ast, D.Griffin 7+4reb+1ast, S.Mekdad 7+6reb+2astChartres: H.Jalce 11+5reb+1ast, W.Berquier 10+6reb+7ast, G.Merie 10+4reb+1ast, G.Lemon 9+3reb+4ast, Z.Bojovic 9+3reb, L.Avramovic 8+5reb

gschID: 147112

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GERMANY

Giannis Kalambokis Moves To Alba Berlin - by Miles Schmidt-ScheuberGreek team PAOK Thessaloniki have announced that Giannis Kalambokis (195-G-78, agency: FCM) has moved to 8 time BEKO BBL team Alba Berlin. Kalambokis is a 33 year old 195cm guard that is very consistent defender against any guard, but also stable in shooting. Drives really trustworthy to the basket and is a very good finisher, never forcing a shot. This season for PAOK he played 18 games averaging 12,7ppg, 2,6rpg and 1,3apg. He started his basketball career in 1999 for P.Faliro (A2) where he played until 2003. He then went to top team Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus where he played from 2003-2005 playing 21 Euroleague games. In the 2005-2006 season, he played for AEK Athens Fiba Arbitration Tribunal BAT: 020/08 (A1): Euroleague: 13 games: 7.4ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.6apg, 2FGP: 43.7%, 3FGP: 23.3%, FT: 82.9%; Greek League: 25 games: 7.8ppg, 1.9rpg, 1.6apg, 1.0spg, 2FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 36.0%, FT: 83.0%. In 2006-2007, he played for PAOK Marfin Thessaloniki (A1, starting five): ULEB Cup: 12 games: 8.1ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.8apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 51.1%, 3FGP: 32.1%, FT: 80%; Greek League: 26 games: 13.2ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.7apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 58.0%, 3FGP: 37.0%, FT: 77.0%. He then played for Panionios Forthnet Athens from 2007-2010. Last season, he played for Ikaros Kallitheas playing 24 games: 9.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 44.1%, 3PT: 17.2%, FT: 86.3%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Greek Cup Finalist -04, Greek Cup Semifinals -06, 09, Greek League All-Star Game -07, 10, Eurobasket.com All-Greek A1 League Domestic Player of the Year -07, Eurobasket.com Greek A1 League All-Domestic Players Team -07, Greek League Semifinals -08, Italian SerieA Semifinals -09, Greek National Team -09, and European Championships in Poland -09 (Bronze): 8 games: 3.3ppg, 1.6rpg

Josh Young (Walter Tigers Tuebingen)With Each Win Comes More Confidence And We Are Really Finding Some Chemistry - by Miles Schmidt-ScheuberJoshua Young (185-G-88, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Drake) is a 23 year old 185cm guard from Lawton, Oklahoma. He played at Drake from 2006-2010. In his senior year, he played 32 games: 14.4ppg, 3.9rpg, 2.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 44.0%, 3PT: 35.8%, FT: 73.0%. Last season he came to Germany and played for Bayer Giants Leverkusen (Germany-ProB, starting five): 11 games: 26.7ppg, 6.4rpg, 3.0apg, 2.3spg, FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 45.3%, FT: 79.0%. He spoke to Eurobasket about the next game against the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig February 25th

The Walter Tigers Tuebingen announced recently that head coach Igor Perovic will stay on board until 2014. It is my impression that the coach is very popular with the team?

Yes we all have a great respect for coach. He is a player's coach so we enjoy playing for him.

The Tigers have a four game winning streak. Is the team self confidence as high as it ever has been at the moment?

With each win comes more confidence. We are starting to really find some chemistry and that has helped us to play well these last four games.

What is your memory of the big 94-63 win against Braunschweig at home?

I just remember it was the first time we put 40 complete minutes together. We were able to take a lead early and run with it for the rest of the game.

Braunschweig have had injury problems and two tough OT loses and are riding a four game losing streak. How dangerous is this team?

They have a solid team with really good players. We know that they are a dangerous team so we expect it to be a battle on Sunday.

Are you looking forward to playing against big German 18 year old talent Dennis Schroder? He scored four points in the loss in Tuebingen and I know you have seen him on video.

Yea I know Dennis personally. He is a great talent. I'll be looking forward to the matchup.

What has been the craziest story that you have heard about Jeremy LIn in the last week?

There have been so many. The fact that he had to ask the media back in Taiwan to let his family have their privacy again just shows how big his name has really become.

How much better are the Knicks now with JR Smith?

He gives them a legitimate scoring perimeter player outside of Melo. I think he was a great addition.

Thanks Josh for the chat

ProA Round 24 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket NewsEighth ranked ETB Wohnbau won an overtime thriller edging 7th ranked Science City Jena by one point 88-87 on Sunday night. Worth to mention a great performance of Chris Alexander who helped to win the game recording 25 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!). Science City Jena's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. ETB Wohnbau have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Duesseldorf. Science City Jena at the other side dropped to the eighth position with 12 games lost. ETB Wohnbau will face Cuxhaven BasCats (#13) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Science City Jena will play against Crailsheim Merlins (#3).

In the last two games of round 24 Cuxhaven lost to Leitershofen on the opponent's court 90-98. Heidelberg managed to outperform Duesseldorf in a home game 79-75. NBC managed to beat Ehingen on the road 88-84. Chemnitz defeated Kirchheim on its own court 72-65. Webmoebel was beaten by MBC in Weissenfels 91-79. Crailsheim won against Braves at home 88-79. The most impressive stats of the last round was 29 points and 5 rebounds by Andre Calvin of Ehingen.

There was a minor upset in Diedorf where 13th ranked Cuxhaven BasCats (9-13) were defeated by bottom-ranked Leitershofen (5-17) 98-90 on Sunday. Newly promoted Leitershofen maintains fifteenth position with 5-17 record. Cuxhaven BasCats at the other side keep the thirteenth place with 13 games lost. Leitershofen will face higher ranked Webmoebel Baskets (#5) in Paderborn in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.

There was a surprise result when thirteenth ranked USC Heidelberg (10-12) defeated at home higher ranked Gloria Giants (11-11) 79-75 on Sunday. The hosts trailed by 6 points after three quarters before their 20-10 charge, which allowed them to win the game. USC Heidelberg shot the lights out from three sinking 12 long-distance shots on high 63.2 percentage. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Paul Zipser (195-94) who helped to win the game recording 21 points and American guard Clint Sargent (193, college: S.Dakota St.) who added 18 points during the contest. The best for the losing side was Estonian forward Rait Keerles (201-80) with 21 points and 8 rebounds and American-Liberian forward Patrick Flomo (203-80, college: Ohio) scored 11 points and 7 rebounds. Four Gloria Giants players scored in double figures. Gloria Giants' coach tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. USC Heidelberg moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Karlsruhe and NBC. Gloria Giants at the other side keep the sixth position with 11 games lost. USC Heidelberg will face league's second-placed Kirchheim Knights on the road in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Top scorers:Heidelberg: P.Zipser 21+2reb+3ast, C.Sargent 18+3reb+1ast, J.Williams 13+6reb+2ast, K.Barth 8+1reb+6ast, J.Heindel 7+6reb, B.Schoo 5+6reb+2astDuesseldorf: R.Keerles 21+8reb+1ast, M.Brauer 12+4reb+1ast, P.Flomo 11+7reb, M.Petric 10+1reb+3ast, L.Hall 8+2reb+4ast, D.Mims 4+4reb

Eighth ranked ETB Wohnbau won an overtime thriller edging 7th ranked Science City Jena by one point 88-87 on Sunday night. Science City Jena was trailing by 5 points at halftime but managed to get 2-point lead after three quarters before a 20-18 charge of ETB Wohnbau, which allowed them to tie the game at the end of regular time. They were better in overtime eventually winning that period 14-13. ETB Wohnbau forced 20 Science City Jena turnovers. Strangely Science City Jena outrebounded ETB Wohnbau 39-27 including 25 on the defensive glass. Science City Jena was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of American point guard Chris Alexander (186-83, college: Southern) who helped to win the game recording 25 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!) and Canadian-Bosnian guard Diego Kapelan (190-87, college: McNeese St.) who added 22 points during the contest. The best for the losing side was American forward Jeremy Black (203-85, college: Tampa, agency: Court Side) with a double-double by scoring 20 points and 15 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Kenny Barker (191-86, college: Alaska-Anch.) scored 17 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Science City Jena's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. ETB Wohnbau have a solid four-game winning streak. They moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Duesseldorf. Science City Jena at the other side dropped to the eighth position with 12 games lost. ETB Wohnbau will face Cuxhaven BasCats (#13) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Science City Jena will play against Crailsheim Merlins (#3). Top scorers:ETB Wohnbau: C.Alexander 25+6reb+4ast, D.Kapelan 22+2reb, J.Henley 15+5reb, K.Wysocki 12+6reb+1ast, M.Buljevic 9+3reb+3ast, S.Kesselring 3+4rebJena: J.Black 20+15reb, T.Kepkay 19+5reb+3ast, K.Barker 17+5reb+9ast, E.Vierneisel 14+3reb+1ast, J.Voigtmann 7+3reb, C.Roquette 5+3reb

There was a minor upset in Allmendingen where 9th ranked Ehingen/Urspringschule (10-13) was defeated by eleventh ranked NBC (10-12) 88-84 on Sunday. The guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 88-84. NBC made 22-of-27 free shots (81.5 percent) during the game. Ehingen/Urspringschule was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Jaivon Harris (197-82, college: Ohio) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 4 steals and naturalized American power forward Ryan De Michael (205-77, college: Tenn-Martin) who added 14 points and 4 assists during the contest. NBC's coach Derrick Taylor used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. The best for the losing side was American forward Andre Calvin (196-85, college: Drake, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) with 29 points and 5 rebounds and center Andreas Buechert (208-87, college: Winthrop, agency: Limelight Hoops) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. NBC moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Heidelberg and Karlsruhe. Ehingen/Urspringschule at the other side, also newcomer in the league, dropped to the twelfth position with 13 games lost. NBC will face higher ranked Webmoebel Baskets (#5) in Paderborn in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Ehingen/Urspringschule will play on the road against Saar-Pfalz Braves (#14) in Homburg and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:NBC: J.Harris 19+3reb+2ast, R.De Michael 14+4reb+4ast, I.Okoye 13+5reb+1ast, J.Reile 11+2reb+4ast, C.Abercrombie 10+7reb+2ast, M.Ides 6+1reb+1astEhingen: A.Calvin 29+5reb+3ast, A.Buechert 16+10reb, V.Matthews 13+4reb+8ast, T.Jahn 10+2reb+1ast, G.Williamson 10+5reb+6ast, A.Vargas 6+2reb+3ast

There was a small surprise when fourth ranked BV Chemnitz 99 (14-9) beat at home second-best Kirchheim Knights (15-7) 72-65 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 4 points after three quarters before their 26-15 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Worth to mention a great performance of American point guard Gary Johnson (188-82, college: Cent.Florida) who helped to win the game recording 16 points and 6 assists and Japanese point guard Takumi Ishizaki (188-84) who added 10 points and 8 assists during the contest. The best for the losing side was naturalized Albanian guard Besnik Bekteshi (188-93) with 13 points and 5 rebounds and American guard Cedric Brooks (185-80, college: Pittsburg St.) scored 10 points and 5 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. BV Chemnitz 99 maintains fourth position with 14-9 record. Loser Kirchheim Knights keep the second place with seven games lost. BV Chemnitz 99 will face BG Karlsruhe (#9) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Kirchheim Knights will play against USC Heidelberg (#11). Top scorers:Chemnitz: G.Johnson 16+4reb+6ast, T.Shaw 11+5reb+2ast, J.Schaffrath 10+4reb+1ast, T.Ishizaki 10+4reb+8ast, A.Rosenthal 8+8reb+1ast, J.Schmidt 7+1rebKirchheim: B.Bekteshi 13+5reb+2ast, N.Menck 12+2reb+2ast, C.Brooks 10+5reb+3ast, R.Tomasevic 10+2reb, D.Uskoski 7+5reb+1ast, S.Adeberg 6+1ast

There was no surprise in Weissenfels where 5th ranked Webmoebel Baskets (12-9) were defeated by first ranked Mitteldeutscher BC (18-4) 91-79 on Saturday. The hosts trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 51-37 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Mitteldeutscher BC made 29-of-31 free shots (93.5 percent) during the game. Webmoebel Baskets were plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of power forward Steve Wachalski (203-83) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds and American point guard Louis Hinnant (193-84, college: Boston Coll.) who added 17 points during the contest. Four Mitteldeutscher BC players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American guard Jefferson Mason (198-88, college: Minnesota St., agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) with 19 points and his fellow American import swingman Nick Freer (198-85, college: Grand Valley St.) scored 14 points. Webmoebel Baskets' coach tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Mitteldeutscher BC maintains first position with 18-4 record. Loser Webmoebel Baskets keep the fifth place with nine games lost. Mitteldeutscher BC will face Gloria Giants (#6) in Duesseldorf in the next round where they are favorite. Webmoebel Baskets will play at home against NBC in Nurnberg. Top scorers:MBC: S.Leutloff 18+1reb+2ast, L.Hinnant 17+3reb+2ast, S.Wachalski 17+10reb+2ast, A.Reid 12+5reb+1ast, R.Holcomb Faye 8+2reb+1ast, J.Collins 7+5rebWebmoebel: J.Mason 19+4reb+2ast, J.Stommes 14+5reb, N.Freer 14+3reb+2ast, J.Diggs 9+3reb, M.Fleischmann 8+4reb, O.Wendt 6+1reb+6ast

No shocking result in a game when third ranked Crailsheim Merlins (15-8) won against at home 14th ranked Saar-Pfalz Braves (6-17) 88-79 on Saturday. The game without a history. Crailsheim Merlins led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They shot the lights out from three sinking 14 long-distance shots on high 51.9 percentage. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Darryl Webb (198-88, college: Indiana, PA, agency: Pro One Sports) who helped to win the game recording 23 points and naturalized American forward Joseph Buck (201-81, college: USC) who added 11 points and 13 rebounds during the contest. Five Crailsheim Merlins players scored in double figures. Crailsheim Merlins' coach Ingo Enskat used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was British-Australian guard Lee Jeka (187-83, agency: Limelight Hoops) with 15 points and 5 assists and American center Travis Reed (203-79, college: Long Beach St., agency: Court Side) scored 17 points (perfect from the field making all six shots). Crailsheim Merlins maintains third position with 15-8 record having just two points less than leader MBC. Loser Saar-Pfalz Braves keep the fourteenth place with 17 games lost. Crailsheim Merlins will face Science City Jena (#8) on the road in the next round where they are favorite. Saar-Pfalz Braves will play against Ehingen/Urspringschule (#12) in Allmendingen and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Crailsheim: D.Webb 23+3reb+1ast, J.Stohl 21+1reb, J.Buck 11+13reb, A.Cook 11+2ast, M.Hill 10+1reb+7ast, B.Baptist 5+1reb+4astBraves: T.Reed 17+3reb, L.Jeka 15+5ast, E.Land 14+2reb, N.Okorie 10+1reb+1ast, P.Alawoya 9+11reb, R.Cardenas 8+2reb+2ast

gschID: 141532

The Eye Of The Tiger Of Jimmy Mckinney Scares BBC Bayreuth As The Fraport Skyliners Win 90-57 - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

In theBeko BBL, you can experience loud arenas and then again you can witness bedlam atmospheres as well. Giessen or Artland can be very hostle places to play especially when Toby the dragon is roaming the sidelines looking to scare an unknown face and the Stechert arena in Bamberg is known to be the loudest place to play in the Beko BBL. However the Oberfranken arena in Bayreuth may not be the biggest, but the noise volume that is generated there can be as annoying for opponents as it is for NBA teams to currently face the killer scoring instinct of New York Knick Jeremy Lin, David Holston getting punished for an untimely turnover and having to guard big ratiopharm Ulm center John Byrant or New England Patriots having to survive another off season with the New York Giants fans heckling them about a second Super Bowl loss to them. For ex Skyliner Dashaun Wood, the Oberfranken halle remains an unfriendly place as he has lost both times in a Skyliner jersey despite pouring in 29 points last season and recently with Alba Berlin, but the Fraport Skyliners wanted revenge for the loss last year as well as for their loss in Frankfurt in December as they showed a superb performance blasting BBC Bayreuth 90-57 and playing as if an announcement had come before the game that Kevin Durant had arrived for an autograph signing outside the Oberfranken arena and everyone departed to see the NBA superstar legend, because Frankfurt played as if nobody was in the arena blocking out any Bayreuth fan distractions making it look so easy. The atmosphere here is amazing and that we were able to block out the atmosphere was great. We were able to play our game and stay calm for 40 minutes despite the noise. It may have looked easy, but it was still hard to win here, warned Skyliner captain Marius Nolte. For BBC Bayreuth, they have only a 6-6 record at home and seem unable to use the fans as a sixth man. When you start 0-8 and are behind in double digits after 3-4 minutes, you take the crowd out of the game. We were unable to give the crowd a chance for getting going with this loss, stated BBC Bayreuth guard Kevin Hamilton. This was the second time that Jacob Burtschi played in Bayreuth and continued to be impressed by the atmosphere. Our start was the big difference and we were able to take crowd out of game. For every run they had, we always had an answer. BBC Bayreuth have faithful fans, even when they were down by 25, the fans were loud, commented ex Phoenix Hagen forward Jacob Burtschi.

After the big 68-49 win last weekend against FC Bayern Munich, the Fraport Skyliners were able to continue their strong play with their second win in a row and started another winning streak on the road after the bitter loss in Bremerhaven 10 days ago. This was a game where not only the defense was superb like it had been for the last months, but also the offense was strong as the team was able to give a top performance for 40 minutes and never let BBC Bayreuth get into the game. Key for Frankfurt was their fast start. Their strong offense got the defense of BBC Bayreuth out of rhythm and the team had no answer the rest of the way. Frankfurt played with a lot of intensity on offense and defense and BBC Bayreuth were unable to stay with them, stressed ex Science city American Sean Mccaw. Since the 79-71 win in Frankfurt where the team was riding a high after new coach Marco Van Den Berg had sparked them to some wins, the club has struggling with only a 3-8 record and have lost five of their last six games and their playoff aspirations seem to be dwindling each day. BBC Bayreuth was unlucky that they witnessed a very hot shooting performance by the Fraport Skyliners. Frankfurt is very much a different team from the first time we played them in Frankfurt. They have really come together as a
team and play a lot better defense. Their strong defense and hitting
their shots really hurt us today', expressed 2010 Dutch top scorer
Danny Gibson.The Fraport Skyliners arrived in the Oberfranken halle in Bayreuth for a rare Saturday afternoon basketball matinee and 3,308 fans packed the arena and quickly made their living room feel like a place where they could of ordered some ear plugs from the nearest drug store, but the gang of Muli Katzurin didnt let the belligerent atmosphere hinder their play as they jumped on BBC Bayreuth right away going on a 8-0 run. Frankfurt was without Justin Gray and BBC Bayreuth was weakened as they didnt have the services of Americans Kevin Hamilton and Tyler Smith and German Stefan Schmidt. For Brose Baskets Bamberg head coach Chris Fleming taking an afternoon off seems to be something you cant do when you are pursuing the triple and despite their next game against Giessen was the next day, the 2008 cup winner with the Artland Dragons and Bamberg manager Wolfgang Heyder scouted the game for their encounter next weekend in Frankfurt. Tim Ohlbrecht started the run with a pretty left hand lay in past ex NBA player Brandon Hunter who soon was dinner for various Skyliners on defense. Oklahoma native Jacob Burtschi tested his 29% parking lot shooting percentage with a three pointer and followed that up with a lay in and free throw. The Fraport Skyliners quickly found their rhythm showing BBC Bayreuth who was king in their living room supplying rapid pressure on offense and defense controlling the game and having the momentum. After young German Tom Spoler followed up his own miss with a lay in, the Fraport Skyliners offense continued to clicking on all cylinders on offense as Michael Thompson found his touch from outside, Ohlbrecht connected over Hunter again and Jimmy Mckinney dropped his first three pointer of the contest as Frankfurt led 16-5. BBC Bayreuth got a bucket from ex Bamberg American Beckham Wyrick and got to the free throw line, but Frankfurt continued to score any which way as Quantez Robertson snuck inside and Devin Gibson hit a contested three pointer from the top of the key as Frankfurt led 21-13. After Canadian Osvaldo Jeanty cut the Frankfurt lead to 25-17, Muli Katzurin continued to gaze down his bench and inserted ex NBA player Jermareo Davidson who quickly found his touch making a beautiful fade away jumper over Brandon Hunter and dunking home a beautiful Gibson pass who had escaped losing the ball and somehow found the big man inside with one second to play in the first quarter as the Fraport Skyliners led 29-21. Frankfurt was clearly better as they had very high shooting percentages and rebounded very well, stressed Brose Baskets Bamberg manager Wolfgang Heyder.

In the second quarter, The Fraport Skyliners continued where they left off in the first quarter with an aggressive offense that just didnt want to miss as they went on a 12-1 run to extend their lead to 41-22. Jimmy Mckinney and Jacob Burtschi hit back to back three pointers, Jermareo Davidson burned ex Boston Celtic Brandon Hunter another time with a fade away jumper and got a pat on his butt from Muli Katzurin as he was running back to get on defense, German national player Johannes Herber hit in the zone with a difficult fade away jumper and Gibson stole the ball from Gibson and fed Burtschi who gave Robertson a quick no look pass as the American scored inside. After a Tom Spoler floater, Frankfurt countered back with a Herber three pointer and another Davidson fade away jumper as Frankfurt led 47-27. Estonian guard Rain Veideman tried to give the team some energy with a thunderous two handed dunk, but Thompson stopped any kind of BBC Bayreuth run to continue as he hit back to back shots as Frankfurt continued to stay in control doing what they wanted on offense leading 52-29. Skyliner captain Marius Nolte then scored inside getting a nifty back door pass from Herber as scored on a layup. The Fraport Skyliners led 55-32 at halftime. The bottom line at half time wasnt how much Frankfurt had given up, but the point difference. BBC Bayreuth may have came back in Giessen last weekend, but to do the same against avery strong Frankfurt team would have been very difficult, stressed Bamberg head coach Chris Fleming. The Fraport Skyliners were shooting a whopping 72% from the field and from the three point line while BBC Bayreuth was shooting 50% from the field and 17% from the three point line. Frankfurt led the rebounding duel 12-9 and had only three turnovers while BBC Bayreuth had eight turnovers.

Muli Katzurin was surely aware of the capability that BBC Bayreuth showed last weekend in Giessen scoring 63 points in the second half and getting the win, but BBC Bayreuth wasnt able to transform the words of head coach Marco Van Den Berg into cutting down the lead of Frankfurt. Coach told us to keep fighting and try to cut lead down to 10 or less, so we could have a chance in the fourth quarter, added Danny Gibson. Coach had warned us about the Braunschweig game where they came from 20 back. That experience helped us in the second half as we never let them get the run they needed, expressed Jacob Burtschi. The Fraport Skyliners continued their offensive rampage starting the third quarter going on a 7-2 run to extend their lead to 62-34 and dashing the hopes of BBC Bayreuth more quickly about ever turning the game around to their fortune. In this run, Jimmy Mckinney who was hot spun in the zone and finished with a pull up jumper, Burtschi nailed another three pointer and Davidson hit a mid distance jumper. After Hunter and Thompson traded buckets, BBC Bayreuth was trailing 65-36. However BBC Bayreuth went on a 9-1 run to close out the third quarter, but still trailed 67-45. It is never easy to be fully concentrated for 40 minutes, but even harder when you are leading by 29 points. In this run, Frankfurt missed some shots and also an easy Robertson tip in while BBC Bayreuth was grinding away at the mammoth Frankfurt lead. Ibekwe and Wyrick hit some free throws while Brandon Hunter hit his trade mark mid distance jumper. It was getting more evident that BBC Bayreuth simply had too little time left and were running out of energy. We got hit so early that we couldnt rebound and find the momentum. Whenever we made a dunk or play, Frankfurt had an answer not letting us get closer, commented ex Phantom Kevin Hamilton.

In the fourth quarter, the Fraport Skyliners held their own stepped up their offense again while BBC Bayreuth were unable to get any kind of notable run on offense scoring only a meager 12 points. The Fraport Skyliners jumped on BBC Bayreuth again like they had in every quarter going on a 7-2 run to lead 75-47. Frankfurt outscored BBC Bayreuth 35-5 combined in their four runs to start each quarter. In the fourth quarter 7-2 run, Frankfurt got support with a Mckinney lay in with one second on the shot clock, an open three pointer from Thompson, Nolte lay in and free throw. Even after a Veideman three pointer, Frankfurt always had answer as Mckinney silenced the Oberfranken halle with a three point bomb as Frankfurt led 78-50. Frankfurt then went on a 6-0 run to have their biggest lead of the game 84-50. Frankfurt got busy getting to the free throw line as Mckinney,Gibson and Robertson connected. Veideman then made the play of the game stealing the ball from Gibson at mid court and going to the basket and finishing with a thunderous two handed slam, but it was too little too late as BBC Bayreuth still trailed 84-53. Frankfurt got a Mckinney catch and pop jumper and Nolte lay in after getting a bullet pass from Gibson from the bass line and ex Skyliner Maksym Shtein scored twice to end the game. We got phenomenal defense today and our offense was great. We had great ball movement and we were knocking down our shots, expressed Jacob Burtschi. We werent hitting our shots and we were unable to pick up our defense, stressed ex Nordlingen Giant Danny Gibson.

The Fraport Skyliners were led by Jimmy McKinney (192-G-83, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Missouri) with 22 points. Jacob Burtschi and Michael Thompson chipped in with 14 points a piece. It felt good having my shot again. I hope I can keep my confidence and my shot continues to fall in practice and in the next games, stressed Jacob Burtschi. Jermareo Davidson contributed 12 points. BBC Bayreuth was led by Brandon Hunter with 12 points. The Fraport Skyliners finished the game with an astounding 57% from the field and 62% from the parking lot while BBC Bayreuth shot 41% from the field and 23% from the parking lot. Frankfurt won the rebounding battle 25-24, but the stat of the game was the incredible five turnovers that the Skyliners produced while BBC Bayreuth had 16 turnovers. Despite the potent offense, the big Skyliner weapon continues to be their defense. Our pick and role defense was good and we really did a good job on Gibson and Jeanty. We showed a lot of hustle and effort on defense which sparked our offense, warned Jacob Burtschi. Frankfurt really have good personal on defense. They all work well together and have big bodies. Their instinct is to play together, commented Kevin Hamilton. The Fraport Skyliners host the Brose Baskets BambergMarch 4th.

A1 week 20 news: Wright and Christmas co-MVPS, Patrick O' Bryant left Kavala - by Diamadis FarmakisZack Wright (188-G-85, college:Central Mo) and Dionte Christmas (196-G-86, college:Temple) are the co-MVPS of the A1 League, week 20. They are both players of AGO Rethymnou and we dont see very often, two players from the same team, sharing the MVP honors in A1.

Wright scored 21 points, grabbed 4 rebounds and gave 4 assists in Rethymno's win against Maroussi. Christmas scored also 21 points and collected 13 rebounds. They are both having an amazing season so far with Rethymno, leading their team to a spot in the playoffs.

In other A1 news, Patrick O' Bryant (213-C-86, college:Bradley) gave his last game with Kavala today, against Kolossos. He made it official through his Facebook page, where he also informed us, about his next destination:

''Officially just played my last game as a Greek. Happy to have come to such a beautiful country w a great group of Greeks as my teammates. Now I will take my talents to Puerto Rico''.

A2 Round 20: Panelefsinaikos is all the way to A1 after the victory over Lavrio - by Chris MammidesDuring the games of the 20th week of the A2 league, Panelefsiniakos added another crucial win over Lavrio and is all alone in the top seat of the table and after the two thirds of the league completed, is the top favorite team for the promotion to the A2. In the other games teh results were mostly normal witht he picture in regards to the relegation becoming more and more clear, with Pagrati losing another game and needs a small miracle to remain in the division, as OFI succeeded the road win which was looking for, while AEK succeeded a cruacial road win in Perama against Ermis in another 'violent' game which stopped twice due to 'problems' created by the fans of the visiting site. Furthermore, Arkadikos beat Amyntas at a dead time with Gizogiannis being the MVP of the game with his goal-foul at a zero time, while Panerythraikos will probably remain in the division after the crucial victory over the team of Pierikos Arhelaos. Lastly, Apollon Patras beat Doxa Lefkadas while Nea Kifisia beat Ermis Lagkada.

The games in more analysis were as follows:

Pagrati - OFI 83-87Quarters: 22-20, 37-45, 56-60, 83-87The game was a derby from the begginign to the end but the visiting site of Coach Hougaz was more mature for the victory by playing team-basketball and using all its recources to succeed the victory while on the other hand, the home team had the duet Giannis Dimakos (194-G-94) and Koutroulias to try for the best but without any real team-workTop scorers:

Panerythraikos - Pierikos Arhelaos 74-68Quarters: 15-20, 38-40, 61-51, 74-68The Katerini team tried to succeed a difficult road win against the passionate team of Panerythraikos which had exactly the same target on the specific game, the victory so as to be able to climp up a bit in the table and not to face any relegation issues at the end of the league. Pierikos was leading the game but was able to keep this leading record only in the first two periods (the first half) as in the second half and when things became quite urgent for the Ertyhrea team, it got serious and with Straganiotis, Pritsos and Katoufas who dominated in the rebounding area by grabbing 15 rebounds gave an early end to the game as on the 28th minute the difference reached the 14 points and teh momentum shanged in favor of the hoem team as Pierikos couldn't follow in the score.

Panelefsinaikos - Lavrio 81-73Quarters:23-21, 42-40, 60-52, 81-73The Elefsina team was better than Serelis's Lavrio and with the target of A2 but also without any financial problems with the players being paid mostly one can easily understand why the specific team is doing fantastic, is among the few teams which have no real financial issues, on the other hand Lavrio's players not onyl are unpaid but they do not even know if they will ever receive their money, the situatio nis very difficult and is a small miracle the fact that the team is so high in the table league. Top scorers:Panelefsiniakos: Giannis Kyriakopoulos (185-G-83) 31, Magkounis 14, Deligiannis 10Lavrio: Kakiouzis 17, Giannakopoulos 16, Koukounias 11 and 9 rebounds.

Nea Kifisia - Ermis LAgkada 72-61Quarters:15-12, 32-19, 55-37, 72-61The team of Coach Papatheodorou had no problem against Ermis LAgkada and is amazing but when Iliadis is not in a mmod the team is losing big time. The difference could have been even to the 25 points but at the end the home team's players cut some speed and Ermis found the chance to cut the deficit to as little as 8 points.Nea Kifisia: Moshovitis 12, Diamantopoulos 17, Koukounias 11 and 9 rebounds.Emris Lagkada: Kamariotis 10, Anagnostopoulos 10, Nisiotis 12 points and 13 rebounds

Arkadikos - Amyntas 85-83Quarters:20-22, 43-38, 61-67, 85-83The greates game of al ltook place in Arkadia as the home team with the heroic goal-foul of Sokratis Gizogiannis beat Amyntas who had the upper hand in the game especially after the 22nd minute of the game.At the end the experience of the Gizogiannis brothers and the veteran Kosanovic brought the victory to Arkadikos with Coach Smyrniotis being kicked out of the court after the referees disided to do so due to his bahavior.Top scorers: Arkadikos: Tsiotras 13, S. Gizogiannis 16, Kosanovic 20, An Gizogainnis 18 and 13 rebounds.Amyntas: Leonidas Zoupas (182-G-82) 17 and 10 assists, Pagonis 21 and 6 assists, Sourlsi 15, Tzougarakis 15

Ermis Perama - AEK Athens 84-93Quarters: 27-19, 45-36, 65-63, 84-93In a game which was interrrupted at least twice, the team of Coach Karagiannis succeeded another road win after qite some weeks in a thrilling and tough game against Coach Sorotos team, of Perama. A game full of nervus and with the two 'breaks' due to thrown items tothe court and referees by the visiting sites's fans cost the disqalified of Vassilopoulos participation due to a 'fight' held with Coach Sorotos!! About the game now, the fourth and most crucial quarter was teh quarter which AEK offence was dreamfull, without Vassilopoulos but with a great duet consist of Despos and Kourtis, they overscored their opponents by 19-30 and they won a nearly lost game as PErama was leading most of the game with differences reached the 15 points. Top scorers:Perama: Kapiniaris 12, Tsarouhas 14, Leonidas Skoutaris (198-F-77, college: Cleveland St.) 16, Pashalis 13AEK: Noeas 10 points and 11 rebounds, Vasilpopoulos 22 and 6 assists, Kourtis 16, Mantzaris 11, Despos 15

Apollon Patras - Doxa Lefkadas 77-66Quarters: 20-16, 37-26, 53-46, 77-66Easier than he thought (Vetoulas the head coach of Apollon) won the game against Coach Vournas Doxa Lefkadas. Apollon took the lead from the early beggining and with the usual suspects in the scoring area, Nikos Argyropoylos (188-G-78) and Lianos with vital assistance by Krolo they face no trouble at all from Doxa Lefkadas as Coach Vournas saw his two key players being very bad in the specific game as Petts had 0/5 three pointers whule Pekovic had 0/4 while Rallis had only 1/4 and only Kostas Tsotsos (205-F/C-83) tried for teh best of his team but he was all alone agains the players of Apollon so the victroy came physically for Apollon Patras.Top scorers:Apollon: Nikos Argyropoylos 23, Lianos 16, Krolo 13.Doxa Lefkadas: Pettas 16 and 10 rebounds, Kostas Tsotsos 22.

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HOLLAND

Dutch DBL All-Star Gala 2012 - by Fred RoggenSunday afternoon in the Landstede Sportcentrum in Zwolle, in conjunction with Landstede Zwolle, the DBL All-Star Gala 2012 was a tremendous success. The fans came out in good numbers and were treated to an overall good basketball experience.

A Division Round 20: No surprise as #1 Falco-Szova defeats Soproni - by Eurobasket NewsA Division top team - Falco-Szova (17-2) managed to deliver another win on Saturday. This time they beat ninth ranked Soproni (8-12) in Szombathely 103-89. The hosts trailed by 9 points at the halftime before their 65-42 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Falco-Szova made 23-of-26 free shots (88.5 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a quality performance of the former international guard Laszlo Kalman (186-72, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 23 points and 10 assists and American guard Chad Timberlake (194-84, college: Fair Dickinson) who added 26 points and 5 rebounds (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field) during the contest. Falco-Szova's coach used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Nigerian center Benson Egemonye (207-83, college: Niagara) responded with 26 points and 6 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). Falco-Szova have an impressive nine-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 17-2 record. Soproni at the other side dropped to the eighth place with 12 games lost. They share the position with Kaposvari. Falco-Szova are looking forward to face league's second-placed Szolnok in Szolnok in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Soproni will play at home against Kecskemeti (#5) and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win. The game in Pecs was also worth to mention about. Second ranked Szolnok (16-3) played at the court of 7th ranked PVSK Pannon (10-10). Szolnok defeated PVSK Pannon 84-74. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of PVSK Pannon. The winners were led by Bulgarian forward Hristo Nikolov (200-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) who scored that evening 22 points and 7 rebounds (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field) and Marton Bader supported him with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Szolnok's coach Peter Por allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 17 points and 9 rebounds by the former international forward Norbert Toth (203-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) did not help to save the game for PVSK Pannon. Szolnok have an impressive eight-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 16-3 record behind leader Falco-Szova. PVSK Pannon at the other side keeps the seventh place with ten games lost. Szolnok will play against league's leader Falco-Szova in Szombathely in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. PVSK Pannon will play at home against ZTE KK (#14) in Zalaegerszeg and hopes to get back on the winning track. Third ranked Kormend (16-4) crushed at home 13th ranked FS Debrecen (4-15) by 33 points 92-59, which is the biggest margin this round on Saturday night. Americans were the main players on the court. The best player for the winners was Darian Townes who had a double-double by scoring 19 points, 10 rebounds and 4 blocks (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line). Justin Ingram produced 22 points for the guests. FS Debrecen's coach Raul Jimenez gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Kormend maintains third position with 16-4 record behind leader Falco-Szova. FS Debrecen lost third consecutive game. They keep the thirteenth place with 15 games lost. Kormend will meet Szedeak (#11) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. FS Debrecen will play against Jaszberenyi and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

There were no shocking results in the other games in round 20: Jaszberenyi lost to Albacomp on the opponent's court 71-89. Bottom-ranked ZTE KK unfortunately lost to Marso NYKK in a home game 60-70. Szedeak recorded a loss to Kecskemeti on the road 73-89. Atomeromu crushed Kaposvari on its own court 86-62.

Third ranked Kormend (16-4) crushed at home 13th ranked FS Debrecen (4-15) by 33 points 92-59, which is the biggest margin this round on Saturday night. The game without a history. Kormend led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Kormend outrebounded FS Debrecen 33-21 including 26 on the defensive glass. They shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 52.0 percentage. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Kormend made 7 blocks. Americans were the main players on the court. The best player for the winners was power forward Darian Townes (208-84) who had a double-double by scoring 19 points, 10 rebounds and 4 blocks (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line). Forward Rashad Bell (201-82, college: Boston U.) chipped in a double-double by scoring 14 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists. Five Kormend players scored in double figures. point guard Justin Ingram (185-85, college: Toledo) produced 22 points and forward Michael Schachtner (206-86, college: Wisc.-Green Bay, agency: Court Side) added 13 points and 4 steals respectively for the guests. FS Debrecen's coach Raul Jimenez gave up on the game allowing to play eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Kormend maintains third position with 16-4 record behind leader Falco-Szova. FS Debrecen lost third consecutive game. They keep the thirteenth place with 15 games lost. Kormend will meet Szedeak (#11) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. FS Debrecen will play against Jaszberenyi and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Kormend: D.Townes 19+10reb+3ast, C.Ferencz 15+1ast, D.Mladenovic 14+3reb+4ast, R.Bell 14+12reb+4ast, A.Rujak 13+4ast, G.Fodor 12+2reb+2astFS Debrecen: J.Ingram 22+2reb+2ast, M.Schachtner 13+3reb, M.Szabo 12+3reb, I.Kovacs 4, G.Boros 4+2reb+2ast, T.Papp 2+6reb+2ast

Very expected game in Szekesfehervar where 12th ranked Jaszberenyi (5-15) was defeated by fourth ranked Albacomp (15-4) 89-71 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by Albacomp. Jaszberenyi managed to win third quarter 21-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The best player for the winners was the former international forward Roland Hendlein (205-86, agency: TSS Management) who scored 15 points and 8 rebounds. American swingman Muhammad El Amin (196-87, college: Stony Brook) chipped in 15 points and 5 assists. Four Albacomp players scored in double figures. American forward Kyle Austin (203-88, college: Cal-Riverside) produced 28 points and 9 rebounds and guard Mate Medve (197-89) added 14 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 6 steals respectively for the guests. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Albacomp maintains fourth position with 15-4 record. Newly promoted Jaszberenyi dropped to the eleventh place with 15 games lost. They share the position with Szedeak. Albacomp will meet Kaposvari (#8) on the road in the next round. Jaszberenyi will play against FS Debrecen and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Albacomp: F.Bodi 15+2reb+2ast, M.El Amin 15+2reb+5ast, R.Hendlein 15+8reb+1ast, A.Keller 13+4reb, D.Hollis 13+4reb, W.Chism 8+6reb+1astJaszberenyi: K.Austin 28+9reb, M.Medve 14+5reb+5ast, R.Dramicanin 14+5reb+1ast, A.Szogi 6+2reb+6ast, B.Horti 6+5reb, C.Borszeki 2

The game in Pecs was also worth to mention about. Second ranked Szolnok (16-3) played at the court of 7th ranked PVSK Pannon (10-10). Szolnok defeated PVSK Pannon 84-74. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of PVSK Pannon. It looked good early as PVSK Pannon took an 9-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Szolnok took control and eventually winning the game that evening by 10 points. They made 16-of-20 charity shots (80.0 percent) during the game. The winners were led by Bulgarian forward Hristo Nikolov (200-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) who scored that evening 22 points and 7 rebounds (on 9-of-10 shooting from the field) and the former international center Marton Bader (212-80, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) supported him with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Four Szolnok players scored in double figures. Szolnok's coach Peter Por allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 17 points and 9 rebounds by the former international forward Norbert Toth (203-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) did not help to save the game for PVSK Pannon. Serbian guard Andrija Ciric (199-80, agency: BeoExcell) added 19 points for the hosts. Szolnok have an impressive eight-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 16-3 record behind leader Falco-Szova. PVSK Pannon at the other side keeps the seventh place with ten games lost. Szolnok will play against league's leader Falco-Szova in Szombathely in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. PVSK Pannon will play at home against ZTE KK (#14) in Zalaegerszeg and hopes to get back on the winning track. Top scorers:Szolnok: H.Nikolov 22+7reb, M.Bader 17+8reb+3ast, J.Mills 16+2reb+4ast, O.Trotter 10+7ast, B.Gay 9+7reb, A.Horvath 8+2rebPVSK Pannon: A.Ciric 19+2reb+3ast, N.Toth 17+9reb, J.Doyne 16+3reb+1ast, P.Kovacs 8+3reb+1ast, A.Lepsenyi 6+3reb+1ast, N.Vasojevic 4+2reb+6ast

A Division top team - Falco-Szova (17-2) managed to deliver another win on Saturday. This time they beat ninth ranked Soproni (8-12) in Szombathely 103-89. The hosts trailed by 9 points at the halftime before their 65-42 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Falco-Szova made 23-of-26 free shots (88.5 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a quality performance of the former international guard Laszlo Kalman (186-72, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 23 points and 10 assists and American guard Chad Timberlake (194-84, college: Fair Dickinson) who added 26 points and 5 rebounds (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field) during the contest. Five Falco-Szova players scored in double figures. Falco-Szova's coach used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Nigerian center Benson Egemonye (207-83, college: Niagara) responded with 26 points and 6 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) and American guard Dontay Thomas (186-84, college: La Salle) scored 19 points and 5 assists. Falco-Szova have an impressive nine-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 17-2 record. Soproni at the other side dropped to the eighth place with 12 games lost. They share the position with Kaposvari. Falco-Szova are looking forward to face league's second-placed Szolnok in Szolnok in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Soproni will play at home against Kecskemeti (#5) and is hoping to prove to their fans that this time they can win. Top scorers:Falco-Szova: C.Timberlake 26+5reb+2ast, L.Kalman 23+2reb+10ast, D.Pantelic 17+3reb+2ast, T.Will 15+8reb+2ast, Z.Szabo 11+7reb, T.Harazin 9+4reb+1astSoproni: B.Egemonye 26+6reb, D.Thomas 19+3reb+5ast, J.Rubin 12+3reb+5ast, Z.Vesztergom 9+2reb+2ast, N.Takacs 8+3reb+1ast, P.Lakatos 8+1ast

Not a big story in a game when 11th ranked Szedeak (5-15) was defeated on the road by fifth ranked Kecskemeti (13-7) 89-73 on Saturday. The game without a history. Kecskemeti led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 22-of-27 free shots (81.5 percent) during the game. Kecskemeti forced 20 Szedeak turnovers. The best player for the winners was Serbian swingman Marko Derasimovic (200-84) who scored 19 points. The former international guard Krisztian Wittmann (185-85, agency: FCM) chipped in 19 points and 6 steals. Five Kecskemeti players scored in double figures. American guard Jonathan Levy (193-82, college: CS San Bernar.) produced 25 points and 6 assists (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) and Serbian power forward Nebojsa Dukic (206-85) added 14 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the guests. Szedeak's coach rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Kecskemeti have an impressive seven-game winning streak. They maintain fifth position with 13-7 record, which they share with Atomeromu. Szedeak lost seventh consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the eleventh place with 15 games lost. They share the position with Jaszberenyi. Kecskemeti will meet Soproni (#9) on the road in the next round. Szedeak will play against Kormend and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Kecskemeti: M.Derasimovic 19+2reb+2ast, K.Wittmann 19+2reb+2ast, I.Vukadinov 14+4reb+2ast, I.Pap 12+2reb, B.Perine 11+3ast, Z.Bencze 10+6rebSzedeak: J.Levy 25+2reb+6ast, N.Dukic 14+5reb+1ast, T.Ivosev 9+9reb+1ast, Z.Kiss 7+1reb+1ast, G.Drahos 6+4reb+4ast, R.Laslo 5

Everything went according to plan in Paks where sixth ranked Atomeromu (13-7) outscored 8th ranked Kaposvari (8-12) 86-62 on Saturday. The game was mostly controlled by Atomeromu. Kaposvari managed to win fourth quarter 27-25. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great shooting night for Atomeromu especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.1 percentage. The best player for the winners was American Nick Williams (192-83, college: Cincinnati, agency: Beo Basket) who scored 21 points. The other American import guard Lorenzo Williams (191-84, college: Rice, agency: Court Side) chipped in 13 points and 7 assists. Atomeromu's coach Enrique Gutierrez felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. Forward Gergely David (206-83) produced 12 points and 7 rebounds and power forward Jozsef Lekli (206-87) added 12 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the guests. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Atomeromu have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Kecskemeti. Loser Kaposvari keeps the eighth position with 12 games lost. They share it with Soproni. Atomeromu will meet Marso NYKK (#10) in the next round where they are favorite. Kaposvari will play against Albacomp in Szekesfehervar and hope to secure a win. Top scorers:Atomeromu: N.Williams 21+3reb+2ast, D.Vojvoda 18+1reb+3ast, L.Williams 13+3reb+7ast, G.Koertelyesi 11+6reb+1ast, A.Toth 9+6reb+1ast, F.Morgen 6+5rebKaposvari: G.David 12+7reb+3ast, K.Ahelegbe 12+1reb+4ast, J.Lekli 12+6reb, D.Koma 12+1reb+1ast, S.Kovacs 8+1reb+1ast, B.Szoke 2+1reb+1ast

NBL Round 36: Pelita Jaya beats Aspac by three after a very close game - by Eurobasket NewsThe most exciting game of round 36 in the NBL took place in Jakarta. This derby game ended with only three-point home defeat of second-best Aspac (18-4) to fifth ranked Pelita Jaya (16-6) 60-57 on Sunday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Aspac. The guests trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 1-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 60-57. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Pelita Jaya made 8 blocks. It was a good game for international forward Ary Chandra (182-84) who led his team to a victory with 9 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. The former international guard Erick Sebayang (180-83) contributed with 14 points for the winners. Forward Pringgo Regowo (190-87) replied with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds for Aspac. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Pelita Jaya have a solid three-game winning streak. Defending champion moved-up to fourth place, which they share with CLS Knights. Aspac at the other side keeps the second position with four games lost. The game between 12th ranked NSH GMC Riau (1-21) and seventh ranked Stadium Jakarta (12-10) in Riau ended with biggest points difference. Guests from Jakarta outscored NSH GMC Riau 83-62. Worth to mention a quality performance of Evin Hadi (188-86) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 11 points and 12 rebounds and Fanny Budianto who added 16 points and 4 steals during the contest. The best for the losing side was Ryan Febriyan (194-87) with 13 points and 5 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Stadium Jakarta maintains seventh position with 12-10 record. NSH GMC Riau lost eighteenth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 21 lost games.

In the last game of round 36 Bima Sakti was beaten by CLS Knights on the road 71-58. The most impressive performance of 36th round was 11 points and 10 rebounds by Dwi Haryoko of CLS Knights.

The most exciting game of round 36 in the NBL took place in Jakarta. This derby game ended with only three-point home defeat of second-best Aspac (18-4) to fifth ranked Pelita Jaya (16-6) 60-57 on Sunday evening. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Aspac. The guests trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 1-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 60-57. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Pelita Jaya made 8 blocks. It was a good game for international forward Ary Chandra (182-84) who led his team to a victory with 9 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. The former international guard Erick Sebayang (180-83) contributed with 14 points for the winners. Forward Pringgo Regowo (190-87) replied with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 13 rebounds and international swingman Xaverius Prawiro (184-86) added 11 points in the effort for Aspac. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Pelita Jaya have a solid three-game winning streak. Defending champion moved-up to fourth place, which they share with CLS Knights. Aspac at the other side keeps the second position with four games lost. Top scorers:Pelita Jaya: E.Sebayang 14+1reb+3ast, F.Dini 12+3reb, A.Chandra 9+7reb+4ast, J.Sucipto 7+1reb, V.Palopo 6+2reb+1ast, K.Purwanto 6+5reb+2astAspac: P.Regowo 18+13reb, X.Prawiro 11+3reb+1ast, D.Gerungan 8+2reb+4ast, O.Wira Sanjaya 7+5reb+1ast, F.Andika Ramadhani 6+5reb+1ast, S.Harun Nurman 4+2reb

The game between 12th ranked NSH GMC Riau (1-21) and seventh ranked Stadium Jakarta (12-10) in Riau ended with biggest points difference. Guests from Jakarta outscored NSH GMC Riau 83-62. The game was mostly controlled by Stadium Jakarta. NSH GMC Riau was better in fourth quarter 17-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Stadium Jakarta forced 30 NSH GMC Riau turnovers. NSH GMC Riau was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a quality performance of Evin Hadi (188-86) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 11 points and 12 rebounds and point guard Fanny Budianto (170-83) who added 16 points and 4 steals during the contest. Four Stadium Jakarta players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was Ryan Febriyan (194-87) with 13 points and 5 rebounds and power forward Boy Damanik (192-76) scored 11 points and 5 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Stadium Jakarta maintains seventh position with 12-10 record. NSH GMC Riau lost eighteenth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 21 lost games. Top scorers:Stadium Jak.: F.Budianto 16+1reb+2ast, A.Sujarwo 15+2reb, M.Ferdiansyah 14+1reb, E.Hadi 11+12reb+1ast, R.Ariestedes 8+3reb, A.Arifin 5NSH GMC Riau: R.Febriyan 13+5reb+2ast, H.Nurdiansyah 11+1reb, B.Damanik 11+5reb+1ast, I.Husnuzan 7+3reb+3ast, R.Israelli 5+1reb, M.Yesyurun 5

No shocking result in a game when fourth ranked CLS Knights (16-6) beat 8th ranked Bima Sakti (7-14) in Surabaya 71-58. The game without a history. CLS Knights led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Bima Sakti's 36. CLS Knights forced 26 Bima Sakti turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international Andrie Ekayana (182-82) who helped to win the game recording 18 points and international forward Dwi Haryoko (193-85) who added 11 points and 10 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was point guard Sugiharto Cahyadi (176-85) with 15 points and Made Indra (179-87) scored 4 points and 9 rebounds. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. CLS Knights have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain fourth position with 16-6 record, which they share with Pelita Jaya. Bima Sakti at the other side keeps the eighth place with 14 games lost. CLS Knights will play against league's leader Satria Muda in Jakarta in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Bima Sakti will play on the road against Pacific Caesar (#9) in Surabaya and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:CLS Knights: A.Ekayana 18+4reb+2ast, A.Indrajaya 12+7reb, D.Haryoko 11+10reb+2ast, S.Febiansyakh 7+3reb+1ast, W.Saputra 7+2reb+2ast, R.Utomo 5+1reb+1astBima Sakti: S.Cahyadi 15+4reb, G.Sudrajat 9+1ast, I.Mu'Ammal 8+3reb, U.Gendro Maryono 8+3reb, Y.Dwi Priasmoro 5+3reb+3ast, M.Indra 4+9reb+3ast

gschID: 166140

Best players of Indonesian NBL round 35 - by Eurobasket NewsYanuar Dwi Priasmoro (178-SG-89) had an amazing evening in the last round for Bima Sakti and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 35.The 22-year old shooting guard had the game-high 23 points adding six rebounds and two assists for Bima Sakti in his team's victory, helping them to beat Pacific Caesar (#9, 6-16) 63-52. Bima Sakti maintains the 8th position in Indonesian NBL. Bima Sakti is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 7-13 record. Dwi Priasmoro turned to be Bima Sakti's top player in his first season with the team. Yanuar Dwi Priasmoro averages this season 16.0ppg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 24-year old power forward Ryan Febriyan (194-PF-87) of NSH GMC Riau. Febriyan impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 20 points and 11 rebounds. Bad luck as NSH GMC Riau lost that game 56-66 to slightly higher-ranked Comfort Mobile (#10, 5-18). The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. NSH GMC Riau is still at the dead bottom 12th position. 20 lost games are too many comparing to just one victory NSH GMC Riau managed to get this year. Febriyan is a newcomer at NSH GMC Riau and despite he is not a team leader yet, every game he becomes more reliable player. Hopefully performances like the last one will happen more often.

The third best performed player last round was Dimaz Muharri (181-PG-85) of CLS Knights (#4). Muharri showcased his all-around game by recording 6 points, ten rebounds and seven assists in the last round. He was a key player of CLS Knights, leading his team to a 74-39 easy win against the lower-ranked Satya Wacana (#11, 2-20). CLS Knights needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 15 victories and 6 lost games. Muharri has a great season in Indonesia. After 27 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 3.3apg (4th best).

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

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IRAN

Jaleel Akindele signed wit Petrochimi - by Kazem GhayemNigerian Center Jaleel Akindele agreed the terms and signed a contract with Petrochimi to help them in WABA league and Iranian league play-offs. Akindele was playing in Russia at the begining of this season and have experience of euro league and alose Italy serie A. petrochimi have to face Champville Lebanon today in Beyrout while they loose their first match in Iran to them. today's match will be a fight with both team's Center's where new coming Akindele has to play against their first match MVP Samuel Haskin. but champville have another star named Fadi El Khetb who will be the role player in the game. basketball fans will see a beautiful game today. lets wait to see what Samuel Haskin and Jaleel Akindele will do today.

On Sunday, Shawn Atupems basket was enough to give the Cork giants a slender 85-83 win, while the previous day, Atupems 23 points and the performance of Ciaran OSullivan ensured their first win of the weekend over Star on a scoreline of 86-71.

We stole the win, said Demons Head Coach Paul Kelleher. It was a very hard fought game, we showed good character in the closing stages to get the win. Star are a good side and when Paul Cummins (29 points) is in that sort of form, they are very hard to stop.

We showed signs of tiredness but we delighted to come away from one of the toughest places to get points with two wins.

Bord Gais Neptunes 92-58 defeat away to DCU Saints ended their hopes of lifting the Southern Conference but second place looks likely ahead of the Play Offs.

Northern Conference winners DCU Saints produced a superb display, lead 53-34 at the break and refused to let up after the re-start with Martins Provizors contributing 24 points.

UL Eagles Jason Killeen maintained his good scoring form of late as he struck 31 points in his sides 90-81 win away to UCD Marian.

The imposing 610 figure, who returned to his native Limerick after spells in the USA, England and France believes their latest win shows they are refusing to rest on their laurels after their recent National Cup success.

Our objective is to keep it going and hopefully try and make it a memorable season, said Killeen. UCD away is a good win and keeps us rolling in terms of being sharp for the Play Offs.

We lost a lot of games early on but we are coming into form in the business end of the season and we have to keep the run going.

Reigning league champions 11890 Killester secured their third win in a row away to Moycullen 83-60.

The contest marked Moycullens last home game of the season and they were hoping to enjoy a similar result to the one when they stunned Killester 64-58 in January.

However, the Dubliners werent going to be caught a second time and had strong performances from the likes of Pede Madsen and Jermaine Turner, who chipped in with 17 and 22 points respectively.

Despite the scoreline, Moycullen were treated to some breath taking moments from their Spanish star Salva Camps.

We started really well and it set us up nicely, said Killester Head Coach Darren ONeill. We were missing a few players and it gave us an opportunity to blood some of the younger guys and I was very impressed with the performance of Jody ONeill and Fergal Flood.

We have a home quarter final by finishing second in the conference and hopefully the habit of winning will continue into the Play Offs.

Maccabi Enters Hectic Week And Exercises Roster Possibilities - by David PickWith the Euroleague Top 16 round well underway and the Elite 8 on the horizon, Maccabi Tel-Aviv enters a hectic but meaningless NBA-like schedule, playing three games in four nights.

Tonight (Sunday), Tel-Aviv will face Maccabi Haifa, who will try to overcome an 11-game losing streak. On Monday, the yellow-and-blue play host to Hemofarm Vrsac of the Adriatic League. Come Tuesday, Maccabi will depart for Spain for the team's last match of the Euroleague Top 16 round versus Catalonian favorites Barcelona.

In preparation for next season and after Head Coach David Blatt approved reports of a possible contract extension with Maccabi, Tel-Aviv's budget's makes ends meet. As a result, the likelihood of re-signing top dollar players such as Sofoklis Schortsanitis and Keith Langford, is currently all up in the air.

On the other hand, potential recruits catching the team's spotlight are Unics Kazan's 32-year-old guard Henry Domercant, who's averaging a Euroleague career high 16.13ppg. Like wine, Domercant seems to improve and progress as time goes by and may land in Tel-Aviv sooner than later, if Kazan draws Maccabi in the Elite 8. Yet, his two-year deal with the Russian squad appears to be an obstacle.

BC Khimky Moscow's smart and efficient Croatian Kresimir Loncar, is also on the radar. Despite playing just two Euroleague games this season, Loncar posted numbers of 20.5ppg on 65.2% field goal shooting, in addition to grabbing nearly 9 rebounds per game.

Lithuania's Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius explosive point guard Tyrese Riceis also high on demand, as are CSKA's Sammy Mejia (has contract for another season) and Maccabi's former player currently hooping for Anadolu Efes, Esteban Batista.

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ITALY

Olimpia Milano targeting Erazem Lorbek for the next season? - by Andrea CentenariAccording to Il Corriere dello Sport, EA7 Emporio Armani Milano is already working on the roster for the next season and the main target is Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.). The slovenian big man is actually playing with Regal FC Barcelona and his contract will expire at the end of this season. Lorbek is happy in Barcelona and would love to continue in Spain but his salary has to be increased, also considering that with the new fiscal system, Lorbek has to pay 56% in taxes. If Lorbek leaves Regal Regal FC Barcelona, the European top teams will try to sign him but EA7 Emporio Armani Milano already made his first move.

Lega2 Round 22: Trenkwalder RE loses the game and top position - by Eurobasket NewsThere was no lack of excitement in the last round games. The round ended with change at the leadership position, few extra overtimes, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

There was a change at the Lega2 leadership position after last games. Round 22 most important game was a defeat of league's leader Trenkwalder RE (14-5). They were defeated by third ranked Givova Scafati (15-6) 77-61 on Sunday night. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Trenkwalder RE. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The game was mostly controlled by Givova Scafati. Trenkwalder RE managed to win fourth quarter 15-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American power forward James Thomas (203-80, college: Texas) scored 8 points and 16 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and naturalized Argentinian point guard Marcos Casini (188-80) chipped in 17 points during the contest. At the losing side American guard Donell Taylor (198-82, college: UAB) responded with 18 points. Givova Scafati have an impressive seven-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader. Trenkwalder RE at the other side dropped to the second place with five games lost. They were replaced at the leadership position by Givova Scafati. Trenkwalder RE will play next round against strong Enel Brindisi trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Givova Scafati will try to continue on its current victory against ninth ranked Tezenis Verona on the road.

In the last two games of round 22 Morpho Basket won against MarcoPoloShop on the opponent's court 80-75. Enel Brindisi managed to outperform S.Antimo in a home game 77-67. Centrale Latte recorded a loss to Biancoblu BO on the road 76-72. Prima Veroli defeated Assi Ostuni on its own court 74-62. The most impressive stats of the last round was 21 points, 19 rebounds and 5 assists by Bobby Jones of Giorgio Tesi PT.

Very expected game in Forli where 14th ranked MarcoPoloShop.it (6-13) was defeated by eighth ranked Morpho Basket (10-10) 80-75 on Sunday. The guests were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Morpho Basket forced 20 MarcoPoloShop.it turnovers. American guard Clint Cotis Harrison (194-76, college: N.Carolina St., agency: Court Side) scored 29 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners and the other American import forward Dwayne Anderson (198-86, college: Villanova) chipped in 17 points and 13 rebounds during the contest. At the losing side American guard Austin Freeman (190-89, college: Georgetown) responded with 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists and Finnish swingman Shawn Huff (198-84, college: Valparaiso) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 10 rebounds. Morpho Basket moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Fileni BPA. MarcoPoloShop.it lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the fourteenth position with 13 games lost. Morpho Basket will face higher ranked Tuscany Pistoia (#3) at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. MarcoPoloShop.it will play against S.Antimo (#15) in Sant'Antimo and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Morpho Basket: C.Cotis Harrison 29+5reb+4ast, D.Anderson 17+13reb+2ast, M.Passera 13+1reb+1ast, L.Infante 8+6reb, A.Voskuil 7+1reb+2ast, A.Casella 2MarcoPoloShop: A.Freeman 20+5reb+4ast, S.Huff 16+10reb, R.Nardi 11+2reb+8ast, T.Coleman 9+7reb, S.Borsato 8+3reb, L.Campani 5+5reb

Very predictable result when fourth ranked Enel Brindisi (14-7) defeated at home bottom-ranked S.Antimo (6-14) 77-67 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Enel Brindisi. S.Antimo was better in second period 17-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded S.Antimo 33-21 including 25 on the defensive glass. Naturalized American forward Craig Callahan (203-81, college: NC-Wilmington, agency: Court Side) scored 18 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and Serbian power forward Dejan Borovnjak (207-86, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 14 points and 7 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) during the contest. Four Enel Brindisi players scored in double figures. At the losing side the former international power forward Alessandro Cittadini (207-79) responded with 25 points (on 11-of-12 shooting from the field) and American guard Folarin Campbell (192-86, college: George Mason) scored 15 points. Enel Brindisi moved-up to third place, which they share with Giorgio Tesi PT. Newly promoted S.Antimo stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost. Enel Brindisi will face league's second-placed Trenkwalder RE in Reggio Emilia in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. S.Antimo will play at home against MarcoPoloShop.it (#14) in Forli and it may be a tough game between close rivals. Top scorers:Enel Brindisi: J.Hunter 18+1reb+2ast, C.Callahan 18+9reb+2ast, D.Borovnjak 14+7reb+1ast, M.Formenti 10+1reb+2ast, M.Giuri 8+3reb+2ast, A.Renfroe 4+5reb+1astS.Antimo: A.Cittadini 25+1reb, F.Campbell 15+3reb+3ast, T.Bell 12+2reb+1ast, C.Cantone 5+2reb, N.Kommatos 4+10reb+1ast, G.Eliantonio 2+2reb+1ast

There was a change at the Lega2 leadership position after last games. Round 22 most important game was a defeat of league's leader Trenkwalder RE (14-5). They were defeated by third ranked Givova Scafati (15-6) 77-61 on Sunday night. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Trenkwalder RE. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The game was mostly controlled by Givova Scafati. Trenkwalder RE managed to win fourth quarter 15-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American power forward James Thomas (203-80, college: Texas) scored 8 points and 16 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and naturalized Argentinian point guard Marcos Casini (188-80) chipped in 17 points during the contest. At the losing side American guard Donell Taylor (198-82, college: UAB) responded with 18 points and the former international center Roberto Chiacig (210-74) scored 10 points and 8 rebounds. Givova Scafati have an impressive seven-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader. Trenkwalder RE at the other side dropped to the second place with five games lost. They were replaced at the leadership position by Givova Scafati. Trenkwalder RE will play next round against strong Enel Brindisi trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Givova Scafati will try to continue on its current victory against ninth ranked Tezenis Verona on the road. Top scorers:Givova Scafati: M.Casini 17+3reb+2ast, P.Marigney 15+1reb+5ast, N.Radulovic 13+3reb+4ast, G.Sorrentino 9+2reb+1ast, J.Thomas 8+16reb, O.Gueye 8+2reb+2astTrenkwalder: D.Taylor 18+2reb+1ast, D.Slanina 10+2reb+1ast, R.Chiacig 10+8reb, D.Robinson 7+7reb+3ast, M.Antonutti 6+5reb, M.Frassineti 4+2reb+1ast

There was an upset in Bologna where higher ranked Centrale Latte (11-10) was defeated by eleventh ranked Biancoblu BO (8-12) 76-72 on Sunday. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 23-14. But Centrale Latte won second period 13-11. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Biancoblu BO looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Centrale Latte was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Power forward Patrick Baldassarre (200-86, agency: Players Group) had a double-double by scoring 21 points, 15 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners and American point guard Tre Kelley (183-85, college: S.Carolina) chipped in 16 points and 5 assists during the contest. Four Biancoblu BO players scored in double figures. At the losing side naturalized Argentinian forward Mario Jose Ghersetti (201-81) responded with 18 points and 7 rebounds and American guard Ryan Thompson (198-89, college: Rider) scored 17 points and 7 steals. Centrale Latte's coach Sandro Dell Agnello tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Newly promoted Biancoblu BO maintains eleventh position with 8-12 record, which they share with Prima Veroli. Centrale Latte lost third consecutive game. They keep the sixth place with ten games lost. Biancoblu BO will face higher ranked Fileni BPA (#7) in Jesi in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Top scorers:Biancoblu BO: P.Baldassarre 21+15reb+4ast, T.Kelley 16+1reb+5ast, M.Canavesi 12+6reb+1ast, G.Yango 10+8reb, A.Pecile 7+3reb+5ast, D.Cutolo 5+1rebCentrale Latte: M.Jose Ghersetti 18+7reb+2ast, R.Thompson 17+4reb+1ast, M.Rezzano 16+3reb, R.Rombaldoni 8+2reb+3ast, L.Goldwire 8+3reb+5ast, F.Bushati 2+1reb

There was a small surprise when twelfth ranked Prima Veroli (8-12) beat at home 9th ranked Assi Ostuni (9-12) 74-62 on Sunday. The game without a history. Prima Veroli led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Prima Veroli forced 20 Assi Ostuni turnovers. Assi Ostuni was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Finnish-American forward Gerald Lee (208-87, college: ODU) scored 16 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and American guard Barry Elder (193-82, college: Georgia Tech) chipped in 17 points during the contest. Four Prima Veroli players scored in double figures. Prima Veroli's coach Fernando Gentile used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side Slovenian guard Jaka Klobucar (198-87) responded with 14 points and American point guard Aaron Johnson (172-88, college: UAB) scored 9 points. Prima Veroli moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Biancoblu BO. Newly promoted Assi Ostuni keeps the ninth position with 12 games lost. Prima Veroli will face Aget Imola (#13) on the road in the next round. Top scorers:Prima Veroli: B.Elder 17+3reb+2ast, G.Lee 16+8reb+3ast, J.Jackson 13+1reb+7ast, D.Brkic 11+4reb+1ast, A.Giovacchini 6+2reb+1ast, M.Colussi 3Assi Ostuni: J.Klobucar 14+3reb+1ast, T.Rinaldi 12+1reb, M.Jurevicus 9+4reb+1ast, A.Johnson 9+4reb+2ast, G.Carenza 6+2reb+1ast, D.Diliegro 5+2reb